blog archive
• 2012-2014 •
My Open Reply to the '"Why Don't Worry About Money, Just Travel,' is the Worst Advice Ever,"' Article:
Original article is
, written by Chelsea Fagan.
This is an open reply to why I disagree and feel the article was blankly assuming many, many things about "younger" people who travel. I'm 29 and choose to prioritize travel over other expenses (houses, TVs, clothes) and things like settling down to start a family. That's my choice, not a privilege, as the article suggests. I don't think the article paints a fair picture of all of us out there exploring the world.
These are my opinions; I understand not everyone will agree and that is ok. I just felt compelled to reply to Chelsea.
***
Dear Chelsea,
Everything you do in life is a choice.
You choose your friends.
You choose your job.
You choose to travel.
You choose to save money so that you can travel, or you spend it on other things.
In your, article,
'"Why Don't Worry About Money, Just Travel,"
is the Worst Advice Ever,"' I read yesterday, I was annoyed and felt that you blankly assume that anyone who travels is privileged, because of your internet acquaintance.
First off, with her being an acquaintance, how do you know she comes from a rich family? Do you know her intention for travel? Do you know if she is frivolous with her money? Do you know if she has scholarships for her Master's? The picture you paint sounds more like assumptions than actual knowledge of
who
this girl is.
"The girl in question posts superficially inspiring quotes on her lush photos, about dropping everything and running away, or quitting that job you hate to start a new life somewhere new, or soaking up the beauty of the world while you are young and untethered enough to do so."
As someone who also posts encouragement and inspiration via social media channels, like Instagram, I took this personally.
I know what my intention is on social media: to encourage and inspire. I don't get upset when others don't share my love for travel, and definitely do not look down on them.
How do you know that your friend isn't also trying to do the same? Since you didn't share her handle, we don't know for certain the verbiage she is using, but I highly doubt she is telling people they suck because they don't choose travel (yes, choose).
Yes, there are trust-fund kids who do get to travel often. Lucky them.
Moving on...
"...someone who has had the extreme privilege (yes, privilege) of getting out there and traveling extensively while young is not any better, wiser, or more worthy than the person who has stayed home to work multiple jobs to get the
hope
of one day landing a job that the traveler will assume is a given."
What makes you think that is the intention of your friend? What makes you think that is the intention of seasoned-travelers? I know that's not the intention of myself. I do find that I have a harder time relating to people who have not traveled, but that doesn't mean I think less of them or more of myself.
This blew my mind the most:
"...nothing about your ability or inability to travel means anything about you as a person."
Are you kidding me? Did you read what you wrote?
Just because someone is "saddled with more responsibility," does not mean they are less capable of travel. That is making an excuse for the people who don't know how to budget or do without in exchange for travel (if that's really what they want). If someone really wants to travel, they have to choose to. They do
not
have to be privileged to travel. They can eat at home, carpool, and learn how to plan travel efficiently if they truly have the urge to travel.
"They are learning what it means to work hard, to delay gratification, and to better yourself in slow, small ways."
You know what is most interesting? My desire to travel is
why I know how to budget money now.
My desire to travel is why I took a leap of faith and started my own business.
I've never worked harder in my life, and I have never grown more.
"Everyone needs to forge their own path to financial independence and freedom."
This, I can agree with. My path is not your path, and neither is the girl you're writing about - yet you are quite obvious with your judgement on her path. (Which is why I'm writing this article).
To sum things up
, Chelsea, I think you probably did not mean to come across the way you did in your article, because you are making huge assumptions and lashing out at someone who is living their life differently than you would. The fact that you start the article of by telling us this girl is an internet acquaintance was a misstep, because you clearly don't know her intention, or her as a person.
You cannot assume that everyone in this world wants a good job, to buy a house, or have a huge nest egg. Some of us are ok with having enough to get by, and many of us choose experiences over having nice things or a stable financial future. This makes us resourceful, so that when we
do
get stranded in Southeast Asia, we can figure out what to do.
Like I said at the beginning of this reply, everything we do in life is a choice. I chose to drive home drunk 6 years ago, get a DWI, go completely broke, struggle for a long time (all the while dreaming of travel), and quite frankly, if I had read your article during that time in my life, I probably would agree with you, because I was in a "why is this happening to me," victim-mentality state.
Side-note: my parents have never paid for anything in my life once I turned 16 and got a job to pay for my car.
I
chose
to turn my life around by making better choices, everyday. I had to take each day at a time and now, here I am, able to travel whenever I want
on my own dime,
because I chose to be here. I have lost friends, have moved away from loved ones, and spend lots of time alone. Could I go back and get a Master's? Yea, sure. Could I get a really great job somewhere, so I can buy a house? Yea, sure.
But I don't want to
.
So I'm not.
Because that's my choice.
I understand why you wrote the article, and what you may have meant, but you also came across extremely one-sided and presumptuous.
Regards,
Tiffiny Costello
tiffinycostello@me.com
24 Hours in Omaha
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| Planning to visit Omaha? Check out www.visitomaha.com! |
Driving from Denver to Omaha is about 8 hours, if you don't miss an exit. I missed an exit, so it took me about 10 hours. Skip driving through Kansas, trust me.
The drive to Omaha is flat and full of bugs. My car is still a bug-graveyard because I have not yet taken it to get washed. I suggest loading your phone or iPod up with an audiobook or use Audible.com, like I do. I enjoyed Anthony Bourdain's, "Kitchen Confidential", which is read by Anthony, so that makes it 1000x more awesome. I also finished listening to Amy Poehler's "Yes Please," which is also read by the author. It is hilarious, and I love Amy so much more than I already did.
So, what can you do in Omaha in 24 hours or less? Plenty. Now, you can absolutely do all of the things I have listed in pretty much any city, but I LOVED the vibe in Omaha. It's relaxed, laid back, and easy-going. Even the music scene lacks the pretentiousness of many other cities, like Dallas or Denver. I get really nervous talking to people in the music-scene, because 1) I am an introvert, so people drain me and I'd rather hide, and 2) I feel like I don't know as much about music as others know. I don't know what year a certain album was pressed, or the name of the latest garage-punk-rock band (by the way - there are so many now, I just can't keep up. I'll stick to The Black Lips, Beach Slang, and Thee Oh Sees, thanks).
Ok, back to things you can do in Omaha in less than 24 hours!
Ok, back to things you can do in Omaha in less than 24 hours!
1. Go to a concert
I went to The Waiting Room to see Conor Oberst play. It's a great venue on Saddle Creek Dr. which is also the name of indie label, Saddle Creek Records. If you follow the indie music scene, you've definitely heard of this label, home to many awesome artists like The Good Life, Cursive, Icky Blossoms, Azure Ray, and The Faint.
Even though Conor was on his self-titled tour, he did treat us with some old Bright Eyes songs! Here is Method Acting:
2. Go to brunch at Wheatfields
Oh my goodness - Omaha might have the comfort food situation down better than Texas. (Yes, I said it).
I went to Wheatfields in East Omaha and had Lobster Cake Benedict. It was amazing! When I travel, all healthy, picky eating goes out the window. I believe it's part of the journey to experience the food places have to offer.
Downtown Omaha has plenty of awesome brunch spots, but this seemed like the gem. I will have to go back and check out the other places next time!
3. Go to the Lauritzen Gardens
Visit Omaha gifted me with passes to the Lauritzen Gardens, Omaha's botanical gardens. There are over 100 acres to walk through, or you can hop on a golf cart trolley. They have an herb garden, a cactus garden, Japanese garden, and much more. There are also some amazing animal sculptures by artist, Dan Ostermiller.
I took these photos with my iPhone 5S:
These photos with my Canon T3 Rebel DSLR + 24mm / f2.8 lens, which is great for close-up macro shots:
4. Spend more than 24 hours in Omaha!
So, I feel like I didn't get to spend enough time in Omaha, which is why I'm going to go back very soon. I had to get back to Denver for an art festival I was helping out with, so I did not get to stay the entire weekend.
A few things that are on my list for my next trip to Omaha:
- Go to The Omaha Zoo.
- Roam around The Old Market dictrict.
- Check out Conor Obersts' lounge, Pageturners. (What? I'm a huge fan!)
- Check out a show at Cursive-member-owned, O'Leavers.
- Visit some of the cemeteries (I LOVE visiting cemeteries).
- Anything else? Comment with a suggestion!
How I'm Doing It: Traveling, Working, & Not Going Broke
I usually keep my posts short-form, but this topic is incredibly important and new to me and I have tons to say about it. I hope whoever reads through the whole thing enjoys it, and leaves me feedback in the comment section at the bottom!
***
The day I quit, I decided I wanted an obvious sign and the first song on the album, "Cassadega," by Bright Eyes came on during a Songza playlist I had going in my ears at work.
Don't give up hope on yourself.
Just be patient about the process - about how things are unfolding.
Why are you afraid to start?
I think you should go.
I think you should go.
About 30 minutes later, one of supervisors called me into their office to chat about some issues that had come up the weekend prior on one of the social media channels I was in charge of. Details aren't important, just know that being a social media manager is a insanely difficult job -- a delicate dance, if you will, & most people you work with won't understand everything you do.
The next thing I know, the following words released from my heart to my brain, and then came to life in my tear-choked voice:
The next thing I know, the following words released from my heart to my brain, and then came to life in my tear-choked voice:
"Well, here's the thing - I'm giving you my notice today. My last day will be February 28th."
And that was that. A month later, I left an incredibly secure job, I left a secure paycheck, secure healthcare, a secure 401k -- but I was 100% ok to leave it.
Security is comfort, and comfort make us lazy and complacent.
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| My first $20 after being self-employed! |
Security is comfort, and comfort make us lazy and complacent.
I have no desire to have a secure, comfortable life. I want the challenging, gritty, curse-worthy, life -- because, damn, I feel alive when I'm having a hard time.
Let me tell you what though: the life I have now is much harder. I have to handle so much on my own, and learn how as I go. I have had to get over my fear of talking on the phone. I have to approach people if I want work. I can't just rely on someone to find me on social media.
Which brings me to another thing that needs to be mentioned:
**Edit: I think it may have been confusing to not mention the brands that I DO work with, who have found me because of social media. These companies are incredible and they didn't just send me a copy and pasted email to get in touch with me. They connected with me personally, got to know me, and are great to work with. So here they are:
I work and collaborate with some amazing brands: Teton Sports, ECCO Outdoor, BoldBrew, Mountain Hardwear, Yonder & Outdoor Women's Alliance, just to name a few of the brands who have helped my personal brand amplify, and get me to where I am today. Whether it was an awesome social media internship (Outdoor Women's Alliance), or the opportunity to connect with an incredible marketing team to interview for a job (ECCO), these brands have been BADASS to work with!
Guess what: you can't just tag brands on Instagram and use their hashtags and expect them to come begging you to work for them. You'll get free stuff, but free stuff doesn't pay the bills. Also, the bubble is bursting and brands want to work with people who put really great stuff out there - but for free, because there are so many of us. Don't work for free if you want to make a living from your photography, writing, etc. Plus, when you work for free, it devalues my work when I ask for pay. Say no to brands who don't want to pay you, but want photos, blog posts, and shoutouts on social media in exchange for a $100 pair of shoes. They have marketing budgets. And don't be flattered when you get approached by a brand - it's someone's job to source out influencers on social media who will work for free. Sure, you get to say that you have worked with _________ outdoor brand, etc., but they probably have an influencer-finder platform like Social Native, and are looking for people with more than 1000 followers on Instagram who post a lot of hashtags about the outdoors. Not all of them care about you on a personal level.
I realize I could be calling myself out here, and yes, a couple years ago when working with influencers was fairly new, I worked with many brands, for free. Now, I don't. If you see me promoting a brand, it's because I really believe in 1) that brand as a company & love their product, 2) they are paying me, 3) I have an incredible relationship with them and am happy to promote. It's not because I am greedy, it is because I simply don't have the time to talk about random brands who send me things if they are not paying me, or I just won't use or wear what they have sent me, even if they paid me.
Social media is amazing (hello, it's how I pay the bills), but like I said: the bubble is bursting and you really have to stand out and have more to offer than photos and the ability to hashtag. (i.e. start.....a blog!)
Which brings me to another thing that needs to be mentioned:
**Edit: I think it may have been confusing to not mention the brands that I DO work with, who have found me because of social media. These companies are incredible and they didn't just send me a copy and pasted email to get in touch with me. They connected with me personally, got to know me, and are great to work with. So here they are:
I work and collaborate with some amazing brands: Teton Sports, ECCO Outdoor, BoldBrew, Mountain Hardwear, Yonder & Outdoor Women's Alliance, just to name a few of the brands who have helped my personal brand amplify, and get me to where I am today. Whether it was an awesome social media internship (Outdoor Women's Alliance), or the opportunity to connect with an incredible marketing team to interview for a job (ECCO), these brands have been BADASS to work with!
Guess what: you can't just tag brands on Instagram and use their hashtags and expect them to come begging you to work for them. You'll get free stuff, but free stuff doesn't pay the bills. Also, the bubble is bursting and brands want to work with people who put really great stuff out there - but for free, because there are so many of us. Don't work for free if you want to make a living from your photography, writing, etc. Plus, when you work for free, it devalues my work when I ask for pay. Say no to brands who don't want to pay you, but want photos, blog posts, and shoutouts on social media in exchange for a $100 pair of shoes. They have marketing budgets. And don't be flattered when you get approached by a brand - it's someone's job to source out influencers on social media who will work for free. Sure, you get to say that you have worked with _________ outdoor brand, etc., but they probably have an influencer-finder platform like Social Native, and are looking for people with more than 1000 followers on Instagram who post a lot of hashtags about the outdoors. Not all of them care about you on a personal level.
I realize I could be calling myself out here, and yes, a couple years ago when working with influencers was fairly new, I worked with many brands, for free. Now, I don't. If you see me promoting a brand, it's because I really believe in 1) that brand as a company & love their product, 2) they are paying me, 3) I have an incredible relationship with them and am happy to promote. It's not because I am greedy, it is because I simply don't have the time to talk about random brands who send me things if they are not paying me, or I just won't use or wear what they have sent me, even if they paid me.
Social media is amazing (hello, it's how I pay the bills), but like I said: the bubble is bursting and you really have to stand out and have more to offer than photos and the ability to hashtag. (i.e. start.....a blog!)
Ok, back to how I am making things happen in my life:
I get a lot of people are asking me, "how are you paying your bills?" "How are you able to afford to travel so much?"
I get a lot of people are asking me, "how are you paying your bills?" "How are you able to afford to travel so much?"
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| Chicago 2015 |
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| Tokyo 2014 |
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| Bali 2014 |
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| Grand Canyon 2014 |
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| San Francisco 2013 |
It's actually very simple, now that I've been doing it for a couple of months. In addition to being entirely independent - 29 with no family to care for (yet), here's how I've been managing:
1. I don't spend money on what I don't need.
- I have stopped buying new clothes; I just don't need new clothes! I am not a fashion blogger, so I can get by with what I have. :)
- I have stopped buying shampoo and toothpaste (I am making my own).
- I don't buy alcohol - oh my GOSH you save so much when you're not buying drinks!
- I make my coffee at home.
- I work at home, which saves gas.
- I buy fresh produce, not packaged crap. <---guess what you're paying for when you buy packaged food?
- I do yoga at home.
- I run outside; gyms are a waste of money in Colorado.
- I rarely eat out.
- I pay cheaper rent and utilities by living with roommates.
- I charge what I am worth. <-- this is the big one. Right now, I am making good money, but not being overpaid. I am working for what I believe I am worth, based on research I have done and self-assesments of the skills and quality of work I bring to the table.
Next week, I have a blog post talking about my methods of cheap, frequent travel. I can't wait to share!
2. I have learned how to budget & learned how to STOP worrying about money.
Living paycheck to paycheck for my entire life, I never learned how to budget, because I never had enough money TO budget. I just paid whatever bills I could pay with each paycheck and then spent the rest.
Now that I am being paid more and taxes are not taken out, I have to be incredibly careful with my money, but not in a worrisome way. I just plan better. I have to consider the fact that I need to pay taxes every quarter. I also have to consider that I might not have enough work in a few months, yet the bills will still need to be paid.
I bank with Simple (100% free, no overdraft fees, no minimum balance), and they have a cool feature which allows you to "hide," money from your "safe-to-spend," balance. This allows me to allocate money for rent, car payments, and other bills.
You can also setup goals with future dates, and it will pull money each day from you "safe-to-spend," balance, until that goal is fulfilled. I LOVE SIMPLE SO MUCH.
Now, here's another thing: I am in credit card and student loan debt. Guess what? This does not mean I can't travel. I used Credit Karma to keep track of how I'm doing credit-wise (you can pay off little bits of your debt each month and your score will still shoot up about 10-15 points, FYI), I overpay as often as possible, and I don't fret about how huge my student loan balance is. Currently, those puppies are deferred, so I'm not paying on them. Yes, interest is still stacking up, but when you look at the big picture, aka LIFE, they will get paid off one day. Right now, I have the option to pause paying on them and get the rest of my finances stable and experience life without worry.
Go get your experiences, now. You will regret not doing that. Don't let debt consume you. It's taken me quite some time to mentally not worry about my debts - but that doesn't mean I am just letting them go unpaid. I do believe "karma" trickles into your finances, and I have also found the more I give, the more I get. My relationship with money has changed from, "I never have enough but I want as much as possible," to, "I just need enough to get by & not worry."
I tip, always. I overtip, often. If I feel compelled to tip 75%, I do it. Having an apathetic attitude towards money has really helped me stop worrying about it. Also, I was a bartender/waitress in the past, so I know how much it means to get more than 20%.
Also, the amount I charge for my work is the value I put on my work and the value a client will get delivered to them. When you work for free, doesn't the quality of your work diminish? Clients who want to pay you what you are worth understand that they are going to get good work. Trading work is fine too, but I would keep those situations short-term. For example, "can you design a logo for me and I'll audit your social media channels and show you some tricks?" I wouldn't schedule or manage content in a trade - that is too time consuming and the bulk of my paid work is managing content on clients' social media channels. Coming up with creative strategies and campaigns are my favorite part of my job, but right now, management pays the bills.
3. HUSTLE.
Things will not fall into your lap. Quit thinking that's how everyone who has made anything of themselves has done it.
I'm currently listening to Amy Poehlers' autobiography, "Yes Please," and she even talks about the fact that she didn't get to where she is easily. She had to put years of work as an unpaid/underpaid improv actor before auditioning for SNL.
So far, I have not had to look hard at all for any of my freelance work. I've gotten work from connections from past jobs and people I meet. I'm even talking to a guy I met in the Chicago airport about a big campaign he wants to hire me to manage. Networking and confidence are key in the freelancing world!
Another thing I have done is asked small businesses, "who manages your social media?" and sometimes they have a full-time person and sometimes they don't. I have business cards on hand and am always ready to hand one out.
Because my work is not full-time, I always have to be searching out new work on the horizon. I won't tell you how I do that because then you would be my competition. ;)
4. BELIEVE
If I didn't think I could take on the world, I don't think I would be trying to start a business, travel, and inspire others.
I truly believe I can take on the world. So I am doing it, starting with myself. If I can conquer myself, meaning, if I can learn how to love myself, believe in myself, nurture myself and daily recreate myself, I can take on the rest of the world.
A couple years ago, I got my yoga teacher certification, and although I am not teaching yoga, the lessons I learned from that training changed my life. I learned how the brain worked when habits are formed and created. I learned how thoughts direct everything in your life, down to the aches and pains your back has. Beyond thoughts, your breathe is everything.
What do you really want in life? How do you want to affect others? Where do you see yourself when you let your mind wander?
Have you started to shape yourself into that life? Are you ready to trek down the path of being brutally honest with yourself about your faults and strengths -- and then be ready to change them all in exchange for your dream life?
Anthony Bourdain as a quote about travel, that pretty much sums up how I feel about chasing my dream life:
Go get your experiences, now. You will regret not doing that. Don't let debt consume you. It's taken me quite some time to mentally not worry about my debts - but that doesn't mean I am just letting them go unpaid. I do believe "karma" trickles into your finances, and I have also found the more I give, the more I get. My relationship with money has changed from, "I never have enough but I want as much as possible," to, "I just need enough to get by & not worry."
I tip, always. I overtip, often. If I feel compelled to tip 75%, I do it. Having an apathetic attitude towards money has really helped me stop worrying about it. Also, I was a bartender/waitress in the past, so I know how much it means to get more than 20%.
Also, the amount I charge for my work is the value I put on my work and the value a client will get delivered to them. When you work for free, doesn't the quality of your work diminish? Clients who want to pay you what you are worth understand that they are going to get good work. Trading work is fine too, but I would keep those situations short-term. For example, "can you design a logo for me and I'll audit your social media channels and show you some tricks?" I wouldn't schedule or manage content in a trade - that is too time consuming and the bulk of my paid work is managing content on clients' social media channels. Coming up with creative strategies and campaigns are my favorite part of my job, but right now, management pays the bills.
3. HUSTLE.
Things will not fall into your lap. Quit thinking that's how everyone who has made anything of themselves has done it.
- Quit thinking others are lucky and that's how they got to where they are.
- Quit thinking others are more fortunate.
- Quit thinking, "they got their big break."
- Quit sleeping in.
- Quit procrastinating.
- Quit planning and start doing.
- Quit thinking you don't deserve your dream life.
I'm currently listening to Amy Poehlers' autobiography, "Yes Please," and she even talks about the fact that she didn't get to where she is easily. She had to put years of work as an unpaid/underpaid improv actor before auditioning for SNL.
So far, I have not had to look hard at all for any of my freelance work. I've gotten work from connections from past jobs and people I meet. I'm even talking to a guy I met in the Chicago airport about a big campaign he wants to hire me to manage. Networking and confidence are key in the freelancing world!
Another thing I have done is asked small businesses, "who manages your social media?" and sometimes they have a full-time person and sometimes they don't. I have business cards on hand and am always ready to hand one out.
Because my work is not full-time, I always have to be searching out new work on the horizon. I won't tell you how I do that because then you would be my competition. ;)
4. BELIEVE
If I didn't think I could take on the world, I don't think I would be trying to start a business, travel, and inspire others.
I truly believe I can take on the world. So I am doing it, starting with myself. If I can conquer myself, meaning, if I can learn how to love myself, believe in myself, nurture myself and daily recreate myself, I can take on the rest of the world.
A couple years ago, I got my yoga teacher certification, and although I am not teaching yoga, the lessons I learned from that training changed my life. I learned how the brain worked when habits are formed and created. I learned how thoughts direct everything in your life, down to the aches and pains your back has. Beyond thoughts, your breathe is everything.
What do you really want in life? How do you want to affect others? Where do you see yourself when you let your mind wander?
Have you started to shape yourself into that life? Are you ready to trek down the path of being brutally honest with yourself about your faults and strengths -- and then be ready to change them all in exchange for your dream life?
Anthony Bourdain as a quote about travel, that pretty much sums up how I feel about chasing my dream life:
“Travel changes you. As you move through this life and this world you change things slightly, you leave marks behind, however small. And in return, life - and travel - leaves marks on you. Most of the time, those marks - on your body or on your heart - are beautiful. Often, though, they hurt.”
I moved to Colorado in March of 2014, leaving behind an incredible boyfriend, family and friends. Driving away was one of the most painful and sad things I ever did, but now, a little over a year later, I am exactly where I dreamed of. I'm working for myself, traveling often, and have seen beauty in nature, people, and in myself.
If you dream about it, do it.
If it scares you, do it.
....and this is how I'm doing it, at least for now. <3
***
Are you working and traveling? How are you doing it? Got any specific questions for me? Comment below!
My Own "Eat, Pray, Love."
“The only thing more unthinkable than leaving was staying; the only thing more impossible than staying was leaving.” - Elizabeth Gilber; Eat, Pray, Love.
NO, I am not having a relationship crisis, or any real crisis for that matter.
I just need to go.
Three months ago, I left my job for the cautionary freelancing world. So far, it's been feast, not famine. I'm paying bills, going on trips whenever I want, and still juggling numerous accounts and learning to organize and manage my life in a professional way.
However, with this freedom to go anywhere, I find myself wondering why I'm staying put more often than not. Don't get me wrong, I love Colorado, and am so excited to spend another summer here, but after that, I need to be on the move.
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| Photo: Laurie Tewksbury // Mt. Evans |
I feel like I have waited my whole life to do this, and I have finally created a situation for myself where I am able.
Let me pause for a moment, by the way, and speak on the topic of how lucky I am to do what I do:
Lately, I hear, "you're so lucky!" from people when I tell them what I do for a living. Luck has nothing to do with where my life is right now. There is nothing lucky about how I've figured out how to break away from the 9-5, learned new skills to create a career for myself, and pushed myself into burning midnight oil & waking up early instead of sleeping in to make things happen. I knew that I wanted this, and knew it would mean having to create a, "no turning back," attitude for myself.
Which meant waking up early and not sleeping in until 10am anymore (yeah, sleeping in is 10am for me now).
When you wait for things to happen to you, you have no choice but to settle for whatever comes your way.
If you want the dream life, don't think dreaming about it will get you there. That is definitely step one, but you're going to have to work incredibly hard -- harder than you probably ever have in your whole life. I'm putting in longer hours, having to really think outside the box, and am challenged everyday in my job now.
But I love it. Every second.
I also have many seconds where I wonder what I have gotten myself into...but those pass quickly!
Ok, back to my Eat, Pray, Love situation:
My solution to ease the feelings of needing to move around I have is simple:
Pack up.
Go.
In August, I will be throwing all my things into storage (or selling them), finding someone to sublet my place in Golden, and then head to Louisiana to take my cats, Wizard & Howl, to stay with my sister. After dropping the cats, I'll head to Texas to be with my parents and boyfriend for a couple of weeks until I depart to...
ICELAND!
This will be my second trip to Iceland and I am stoked.
From there I will go to Bergen, Norway >> Stockholm, Sweden, >> Helsinki, Finland.
I'm using Traveller's Point to make a visual map of my plans, as well as CreateTrips to create a list of things to do so I can manage my time well while I'm visiting new countries.
Those are the flights I have booked so far. I'm building this trip little-by-little. I'm using Skyscanner to find the best deals and being flexible with my dates, which really makes a different. (No airline credit card points here - I am rebuilding my credit and don't qualify for the good ones yet).
My intention is to romp around Europe for the month of September, if not longer. I'm going to be writing, working and blogging while I am there, which is the whole reason I have chosen this life of freelancery (I just made that word up - and it's oh, so perfect).
Because I work in the industry of online digital marketing, you bet I already have a #hashtag for this thing created: #TiffinyDoesEurope.
I'm pretty scared, but I know if I don't do this, I will always want to. So here we go!
Where should I go? Should I avoid anywhere specific as a solo female? Should I take a rolling carry-on or a 40L backpack? What tips do you have for me? I'm new to long-term travel! Comment below!
Travel & Adventure Inspiration on Instagram
One of the reasons I moved to Colorado was because of the incredible scenery I would see in photos on Instagram, as well as the people who were constantly on the move, constantly outdoors, and constantly challenging themselves.
So it is not a surprise that I am now finding travel inspiration on Instagram, and I've got 10 of my favorite travel & adventure accounts to share with you!
Do you have any favorite travel Instagram accounts or blogs I should be following? Be sure to share them in the comments!
1. World of Wanderlust (@worldwanderlust)
Brooke is 23 and has traveled to over 50 countries - mostly solo. This girl is an incredible inspiration because she keeps things real, is always on the move, and has the best blog! As an aspiring travel blogger, I am learning a ton from Brooke!
2. Passion Passport (@passionpassport)
Passion Passport is a great account to follow for international inspiration, an engaged community and they also host some awesome Instagram Challenges with amazing prizes. I mostly just love getting severe cases of wanderlust when I see them pop up in my feed.
3. Tiff Penguin (@tiffpenguin)
Tiffany Nguyen is awesome because she shares my name, but also because she takes ridiculously beautiful photos! Her photos are very outdoor-centered, so you can also get some outdoor inspiration from her feed.
4. Liz Carlson (@youngadventuress)
Liz is great to follow! She is a female travel blogger, and was recently featured in an article on BBC Travel about how she quit her job for full-time travel (FYI - it doesn't happen overnight). I also love following her on Snapchat (youngadventuress).
5. Melissa Hie (@girleatworld)
Melissa Hie has the most yummy Instagram feed: travel + food?! I'm in heaven. I love when I see her photos in my feed because I not only get hungry for international food, but also love to check out what's going on in the scene behind her treats.
6. Dame Traveler (@dametraveler)
Dame Traveler is a community of women travel inspiration, so it's obvious why I love following them. They also have travel stories on their website and participate in Instagram takeovers!
7. Candace Rardon (@candacerardon)
I discovered Candace because of a Dame Traveler Instagram takeover - her photos are the drawings of the places she visits. I love how she merges art and travel with her drawings!
8. Murad Osmann (@muradosmann)
Murad has an amazing, #FollowMeTo series on Instagram that involved his girlfriend walking towards something during their travels and he is holding her hand. I love this idea, and love staring at his photos! He also has a book of his Follow Me To series.
9. Kate McCulley (@adventurouskate)
Kate McCulley is such a fun person to follow! She is also another solo female travel blogger and her blog is chock-full of tips, photos, and chronicles of her awesome experiences. She is also a blast to follow on Snapchat, and is a great inspiration to aspiring solo-female travelers.
10. Amanda Williams (@dangerousbiz)
Amanda Williams' blog is named, "A Dangerous Businesses," after a quote from The Hobbit! I know my love for travel narratives has much to do with why I love travel, and I thought it was so neat that she named her handle after one of the best travel narratives!
Do you have any favorite travel Instagram accounts or blogs I should be checking out? Share them in the comments!
So it is not a surprise that I am now finding travel inspiration on Instagram, and I've got 10 of my favorite travel & adventure accounts to share with you!
Do you have any favorite travel Instagram accounts or blogs I should be following? Be sure to share them in the comments!
1. World of Wanderlust (@worldwanderlust)
Brooke is 23 and has traveled to over 50 countries - mostly solo. This girl is an incredible inspiration because she keeps things real, is always on the move, and has the best blog! As an aspiring travel blogger, I am learning a ton from Brooke!
2. Passion Passport (@passionpassport)
Passion Passport is a great account to follow for international inspiration, an engaged community and they also host some awesome Instagram Challenges with amazing prizes. I mostly just love getting severe cases of wanderlust when I see them pop up in my feed.
3. Tiff Penguin (@tiffpenguin)
Tiffany Nguyen is awesome because she shares my name, but also because she takes ridiculously beautiful photos! Her photos are very outdoor-centered, so you can also get some outdoor inspiration from her feed.
4. Liz Carlson (@youngadventuress)
Liz is great to follow! She is a female travel blogger, and was recently featured in an article on BBC Travel about how she quit her job for full-time travel (FYI - it doesn't happen overnight). I also love following her on Snapchat (youngadventuress).
5. Melissa Hie (@girleatworld)
Melissa Hie has the most yummy Instagram feed: travel + food?! I'm in heaven. I love when I see her photos in my feed because I not only get hungry for international food, but also love to check out what's going on in the scene behind her treats.
6. Dame Traveler (@dametraveler)
Dame Traveler is a community of women travel inspiration, so it's obvious why I love following them. They also have travel stories on their website and participate in Instagram takeovers!
7. Candace Rardon (@candacerardon)
I discovered Candace because of a Dame Traveler Instagram takeover - her photos are the drawings of the places she visits. I love how she merges art and travel with her drawings!
8. Murad Osmann (@muradosmann)
Murad has an amazing, #FollowMeTo series on Instagram that involved his girlfriend walking towards something during their travels and he is holding her hand. I love this idea, and love staring at his photos! He also has a book of his Follow Me To series.
9. Kate McCulley (@adventurouskate)
Kate McCulley is such a fun person to follow! She is also another solo female travel blogger and her blog is chock-full of tips, photos, and chronicles of her awesome experiences. She is also a blast to follow on Snapchat, and is a great inspiration to aspiring solo-female travelers.
10. Amanda Williams (@dangerousbiz)
Amanda Williams' blog is named, "A Dangerous Businesses," after a quote from The Hobbit! I know my love for travel narratives has much to do with why I love travel, and I thought it was so neat that she named her handle after one of the best travel narratives!
Do you have any favorite travel Instagram accounts or blogs I should be checking out? Share them in the comments!
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Some quick stats about tiffinyepiphany:
- 400 daily unique site visits on average
- 6500 Instagram followers
- 1500 Facebook friends/followers (Biz Page + Personal Profile).
- 1200 Twitter followers
Tiffiny is also freelance social media strategist and manger, with experience in paid social media advertising, contest/campaign management and creation, and analytics. Helping brands with their amplification is something Tiffiny has become an expert in. Previously, she was the social media manager for Gaiam TV, which has a community of 1 million+ on all social channels combined.
Tiffiny is also freelance social media strategist and manger, with experience in paid social media advertising, contest/campaign management and creation, and analytics. Helping brands with their amplification is something Tiffiny has become an expert in. Previously, she was the social media manager for Gaiam TV, which has a community of 1 million+ on all social channels combined.
- She has worked with the following companies in ambassador/influencer programs, or as a contributor:
Please reach out to Tiffiny today for any inquiries, or fill out the advertising form below! Thank you!
36 Hours in Chicago
Last week, I added a flight to Chicago before I headed back to Denver from my New Orleans & Dallas trip, which gave me 36 hours to explore a new city: Chicago!
Tip: use skyscanner.com, or their app, and you can filter results to show from your airport to "everywhere," and pick a cheap location! That's how I chose Chicago, and paid less than $50 for my flight!
I landed in Chicago Monday night and checked into Chicago's Hostelling International off Congress Ave, and immediately crashed. (Ladies, this place is 100% safe, clean and I enjoyed meeting other female travelers!)
Check out the gif of my room, which had lockers (you bring your own lock), and lights in each bunk so you don't disturb others. I plan to check out other Hostelling International locations, simply because I was so impressed with the Chicago location.
Because I had just one full day to explore the city, I tried to make the most of my time there.
A few things you should do if you plan to visit Chicago (by the way, everything here was free, except the Art Institue, which was only $15):
1. The Riverwalk: the Chicago River runs through the city and you can access some shops and restaurants right on the riverwalk. I ate at a nice little Italian place for lunch near the river, before attempting to catch a boat to Lake Michigan (plans fell through due to weather).
There are also lots of neat buildings to snap pictures of, like these guys:
2. The Art Institute of Chicago: OK - I saw SO MANY famous paintings here! Van Gogh's self portrait and the painting of his room are two that I just stared at for more than a few minutes. It was so surreal seeing tese famous paintings in person, and still able to feel what he was feeling and thinking when he painted them. It reminded me of "The Dead Poets Society," when Robin William's whispers, "Carrrpeeeee Dieeeem," in that famous scene.
3. Willis (formerly Sears) Tower: You can ride all the way to the top of the Willis Tower to the SkyDeck and view the entire city...except when it' foggy.
I was slightly bummed that there was zero visibility, but it was still really cool to be in a cloud.
It was also incredibly amazing when the clouds lowered for about five minutes and we were above the fog!
4. Cloud Gate, aka, "The Bean:" I don't know why, but I was most excited about seeing Cloud Gate - a public art installation by British artist, Anish Kapoor. It is also GREAT for selfies!
Check out the gif of my room, which had lockers (you bring your own lock), and lights in each bunk so you don't disturb others. I plan to check out other Hostelling International locations, simply because I was so impressed with the Chicago location.
Because I had just one full day to explore the city, I tried to make the most of my time there.
A few things you should do if you plan to visit Chicago (by the way, everything here was free, except the Art Institue, which was only $15):
1. The Riverwalk: the Chicago River runs through the city and you can access some shops and restaurants right on the riverwalk. I ate at a nice little Italian place for lunch near the river, before attempting to catch a boat to Lake Michigan (plans fell through due to weather).
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| Most amazing mussels for lunch! |
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| The Marina Towers - Also famous on the cover of Wilco's, "Yankee Hotel Foxtrot." |
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| Vincent Van Gogh - Self Portrait |
Of course, all I could think of when I saw this painting was, "Ferris Bueller's Day Off."
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| Georges-Pierre Seurat - A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte. |
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| Vincent Van Gogh - "Bedroom in Arles." |
I was slightly bummed that there was zero visibility, but it was still really cool to be in a cloud.
It was also incredibly amazing when the clouds lowered for about five minutes and we were above the fog!
5. Walk around the theatre district at night! This was fun for me - for some reason I just love the way theatre signs look when they are lit up! I even stopped to take a long exposure picture of the famous, Chicago Theatre:
So that's basically how I spent my quick trip to Chicago! What did I miss? I definitely want to return and see more of this awesome city!
New Orleans: 5 Interesting Facts to Take With You
I recently spent about 48 hours in New Orleans on a whim while traveling from Denver to Dallas. I was visiting my Texas family and friends and my boyfriend had the time off, so we hopped in the car and headed down to the Cajun Nation of Louisiana.
Before heading down south, I looked up some history on New Orleans and found the following to be quite interesting. (Do you enjoy looking up the history of your travel destinations?)
1. Cemeteries are built above ground to prevent bodies from floating upwards during floods. The city is built on a swamp, and is technically below sea level!
2. New Orleans is the Voodoo capital! The famous Voodoo Queen of the 1800s, Marie Laveau was popularized by the TV show, American Horror Story, even has her own "Voodoo Shop," in the French Quarter.
3. The Lake Ponchatrain Causeway is 23.83 miles long, making it the longest continuous bridge in the world!
4. Jazz was born in New Orleans and you can listen and see many street musicians playing throughout the city, especially in the French Quarter, Jackson Street & Royal Street.
5. Beignets! If there's one thing you should experience while in New Orleans, it's one of the things it is famous for, besides jazz, Mardis Gras, and Cajun food: Beignets. The most famous place to get a plate of these doughy, sugary treats is Cafe Du Monde in the French Quarter.
Have you visited New Orleans? What is most interesting to you about the city?
Before heading down south, I looked up some history on New Orleans and found the following to be quite interesting. (Do you enjoy looking up the history of your travel destinations?)
5 Interesting Facts About New Orleans:
1. Cemeteries are built above ground to prevent bodies from floating upwards during floods. The city is built on a swamp, and is technically below sea level!
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| Photo: tripshock.com |
3. The Lake Ponchatrain Causeway is 23.83 miles long, making it the longest continuous bridge in the world!
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| Photo: wikipedia.com |
5. Beignets! If there's one thing you should experience while in New Orleans, it's one of the things it is famous for, besides jazz, Mardis Gras, and Cajun food: Beignets. The most famous place to get a plate of these doughy, sugary treats is Cafe Du Monde in the French Quarter. Au Revoir: Time to Travel!
Well, it's been quite awhile, hasn't it?
February 28th, I quit my job and started my own social media business. Here we are, two months later, and I have learned how incredibly insane and difficult running, starting and managing a business can be. I have learned new weaknesses, new strengths, and have created new routines for efficiency.
I promise to have a proper update on how things are going, but right now I am finishing up some work and then I'm going to pack my suitcase because tonight I fly to Dallas, then hop in a car to drive straight to New Orleans for the NOLA Jazz Fest!
After that, I will hang around Dallas for a bit longer before heading to Chicago for a 48-hour adventure, then back home to Denver...before hitting the road again.
After that, I will hang around Dallas for a bit longer before heading to Chicago for a 48-hour adventure, then back home to Denver...before hitting the road again.
Be sure to follow my social media accounts (especially Snapchat!) for updates and photos!
Snapchat: tiffinycostello
Au Revoir!
I Just Love It
** Sometimes, I just need to write. Currently reporting from a coffee shop in Denver, while I wait for my tattoo appointment.**
I've always thought I was manic-depressive, or bi-polar - something that defined how crazy I feel sometimes. My favorite books are always memoirs of fallen, but brilliant english majors (Prozac Nation, Wasted, etc). However, I find that I really like to think outside the box which includes thinking outside clinical labels.
So, I call it "being in flux." The earth goes through cycles, who says my brain and/or hormones aren't cycling, naturally, and emotions are a by-product?
Typically, I can tell when it's hitting me because of the music I am listening to, as well as the books I pick up and become engrossed with - on the page and off:
- Catcher in the Rye (Holden Caufield was my idol in high school).
- The Bell Jar (Duh. I'm a female literary-nerd, who also happens to have lots of emotions).
- Memoirs, memoirs, memoirs. If you're a dysfunctional english major, chances are, you will write a memoir one day. And then I will read it.
I do enjoy my time, "in flux," in a completely cathartic way. It always feels like I'm shedding another layer of skin.
Last night, my nightly journal-writing was absolutely insane. I wonder if this is the real me, or if this is a part of me that's decided to wake up with all the other "waking up," I've been doing. Is there a monster underneath all the positive living and thinking I have been working on lately?
It could also be Mercury being in retrograde.
Who knows.
All in all, in the last two days, I have:
- cut my hair
- colored my hair
- hired a tattoo artist to time-stamp all this chaos. (Currently writing from a coffeeshop while I wait for my appointment time).
I know this just means more change is heading my way. I've quit my job, decided to start my own social media company, gone through a relationship-status change, and have a completely wide-open, unknown life ahead of me.
I just love it.
I've always thought I was manic-depressive, or bi-polar - something that defined how crazy I feel sometimes. My favorite books are always memoirs of fallen, but brilliant english majors (Prozac Nation, Wasted, etc). However, I find that I really like to think outside the box which includes thinking outside clinical labels.
So, I call it "being in flux." The earth goes through cycles, who says my brain and/or hormones aren't cycling, naturally, and emotions are a by-product?
Typically, I can tell when it's hitting me because of the music I am listening to, as well as the books I pick up and become engrossed with - on the page and off:
- Catcher in the Rye (Holden Caufield was my idol in high school).
- The Bell Jar (Duh. I'm a female literary-nerd, who also happens to have lots of emotions).
- Memoirs, memoirs, memoirs. If you're a dysfunctional english major, chances are, you will write a memoir one day. And then I will read it.
I do enjoy my time, "in flux," in a completely cathartic way. It always feels like I'm shedding another layer of skin.
Last night, my nightly journal-writing was absolutely insane. I wonder if this is the real me, or if this is a part of me that's decided to wake up with all the other "waking up," I've been doing. Is there a monster underneath all the positive living and thinking I have been working on lately?
It could also be Mercury being in retrograde.
Who knows.
All in all, in the last two days, I have:
- cut my hair
- colored my hair
- hired a tattoo artist to time-stamp all this chaos. (Currently writing from a coffeeshop while I wait for my appointment time).
I know this just means more change is heading my way. I've quit my job, decided to start my own social media company, gone through a relationship-status change, and have a completely wide-open, unknown life ahead of me.
I just love it.
It's Business Time: I'm Launching My Social Media Company!
"I know what you're trying to say..."
Aside from loving the song, "Business Time," by Flight of the Concords, it's business time here at Tiffiny Epiphany, which is currently in my kitchen.
For the last few months, I have barely been able to juggle my day job with my personal dreams and aspirations of being my own bread-winner. I want to teach yoga, travel, write, and somehow pay my bills.
I've decided to trade some time sleeping for some time creating, planning and dreaming. Things have been re-prioritized, and now it's time to dive all into launching and growing my social media consulting + management business. It's just me, no fancy name, yet. Just another adventure here at Tiffiny Epiphany. My dream is to see it grow into a media company so I can hire on friends who also want to use their amazing talents to support themselves.
If I can climb a 14er, I can handle this, right? Duh. Here's to living the dream!
Aside from loving the song, "Business Time," by Flight of the Concords, it's business time here at Tiffiny Epiphany, which is currently in my kitchen.
For the last few months, I have barely been able to juggle my day job with my personal dreams and aspirations of being my own bread-winner. I want to teach yoga, travel, write, and somehow pay my bills.
I've decided to trade some time sleeping for some time creating, planning and dreaming. Things have been re-prioritized, and now it's time to dive all into launching and growing my social media consulting + management business. It's just me, no fancy name, yet. Just another adventure here at Tiffiny Epiphany. My dream is to see it grow into a media company so I can hire on friends who also want to use their amazing talents to support themselves.
If I can climb a 14er, I can handle this, right? Duh. Here's to living the dream!
Let Go: Find the Time to Make the Time.
It's been a great weekend for me.
I have been in San Francisco at the Yoga Journal conference, which means lots of yoga, lots of patchouli and lots of time to redirect my focus inward.
My favorite class was with Seane Corn. That woman speaks my language and teaches in the way I want to teach one day. More importantly, she reminded me of something very important:
It's ok to let go of something that no longer serves you or your purpose. It's ok to let go with love.
For the last couple of months, my days have bled together. I am able to fit in a hike in the mountains here and there, but because of the lack of daylight hours and the time I am working at my job, I have little time to myself. I quit practicing yoga, I quit meditating, I quit feeling calm and peaceful, and most of all, I quit feeling purposeful.
Hello, anxious, flippant Tiffiny from yesteryear! Never thought I would see you again!
"All great changes are preceded by chaos." - Deepak Chopra
Without going into too much detail, the next couple of weeks are going to be interesting for me. I have a feeling "letting go," will be the theme, so that what's been trying to enter my life, finally has the space to enter.
I've just needed the time to find the time to realize that.
I have been in San Francisco at the Yoga Journal conference, which means lots of yoga, lots of patchouli and lots of time to redirect my focus inward.
My favorite class was with Seane Corn. That woman speaks my language and teaches in the way I want to teach one day. More importantly, she reminded me of something very important:
It's ok to let go of something that no longer serves you or your purpose. It's ok to let go with love.
For the last couple of months, my days have bled together. I am able to fit in a hike in the mountains here and there, but because of the lack of daylight hours and the time I am working at my job, I have little time to myself. I quit practicing yoga, I quit meditating, I quit feeling calm and peaceful, and most of all, I quit feeling purposeful.
Hello, anxious, flippant Tiffiny from yesteryear! Never thought I would see you again!
"All great changes are preceded by chaos." - Deepak Chopra
Without going into too much detail, the next couple of weeks are going to be interesting for me. I have a feeling "letting go," will be the theme, so that what's been trying to enter my life, finally has the space to enter.
I've just needed the time to find the time to realize that.
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| Photo: Marisa De Luna Jarae |
2015 Goals: The Future Starts NOW.
Because I am also a list-maker, this will serve as my list of things I am/will be working on now and in 2015:
Also, I will obviously be traveling, climbing more mountains, and continuing everything else I've been doing this year more in 2015. They won't be on this list, because they're all a given. I also don't make fitness or food-related goals. These are daily focuses of mine: to feel good, and eat well. Therefore I eat well, run, and do yoga daily to keep my health in tip-top shape. :)
1. Save Money
This is a big one. Moving to Boulder, traveling as much as I did this year, and choosing to shop consciously (more expensively), I have put some credit back onto my once-paid off credit cards. This will be an easy goal to accomplish. Just pay them off, right? Ha!
I know I'm not the only one who has done the dance of paying off credit cards + trying not to use them, while living paycheck-to-paycheck. (Yep, I'm still one of those).
One way I plan to save money is by moving to a cheaper location. I'm leaving Boulder for Golden, CO & almost half the rent. Combined with my tax return, my credit cards will be back down to $0 by February.
Saving money day-to-day = more money for travel. Bottom line. I'm not buying a house anytime soon.
2. Freelance, freelance, freelance!
I have been whispering about my availability as a freelance social media manager/consultant. The reason I'm not jumping right in is because I need to figure out a business model and strategy.
How do I build an email-list?
How do I charge people?
What do I charge people?
I am definitely in the research phase of starting my own business.
Can I tell you about my dream job?
I would work remotely, for myself, as a social media manager for small outdoor, yoga, and music individuals or businesses. Working remotely would mean I could travel whenever I wanted. That's my ultimate goal: support myself & be free to move around.
3. Focus more on this blog.
I feel like right now there is an overabundance of, "outdoor bloggers." I want this blog to be something more than just another outdoor blog. I want it to be more than that. I want it to be an extension of my voice. The evolution it has already taken has been fun to watch. It somewhat mirrors my own evolution.
4. Let go
Let go of stuff.
Let go of expectations, for myself and others.
Let go so I can become open.
Let go of control and allow the world to give to me.
Let go of fulfilling others' expectations: know that you are a vessel for a greater purpose.
Let go because what you seek is seeking you. Manifest it.
Happy early-2015, all! What are you goals?
Solo Travel: Do It Because You Will Love Yourself
Hello!
I am currently in Washington D.C., by myself. I love it!
"Happy," is an understatement of my emotional, physical, and mental state the last few days.
Before I left Colorado, I was in a slump. My brain was mushy, I had not been doing yoga everyday. (I'm not sure if it's because I'm saturated with it at work now, but something is up with my yoga practice. To be determined).
Loving a city you don't know is a door towards loving yourself. I love this city because it's alive, bustling, new and I find myself finding so much to be happy and thankful for. I'm also having to learn the subway system here, (thanks to the Transit app, this is not as hard as NYC was for me in 2007).
I'm not sure there is anything I love more than traveling alone.
Really.
Minus the extra cost of hotels, taxis, etc., traveling alone is so much better than traveling with other people:
You don't have to make decisions for anyone but you.
You learn the layout of the city you are in because you have to. (I'm guilty of letting others navigate when I'm in a place I don't know, so therefore, I never learn the layout).
You get to do whatever-the-heck you want.
You connect with others around you - because you're aware that they are there.
No waiting on someone who sleeps in late.
No waking up until you want to.
You uncover an affection for yourself, because you ARE capable of being alone in a big city!
The only awkward thing is taking photos of yourself - but I'm a-ok with that.
Why I Take Selfies.
If you follow anyone on any social network these days, it's selfie city.
I am 100% in support of The Selfie.
Why?
Because I am an advocate, ambassador, lover, and enthusiast of -- The Selfie.
Some folks would say that they go into nature to expel technology (if just for a 2 hour hike) from their lives. I get that.
We won't go into ways you can daily expel technology from you life right now. (Don't sleep with your phone in the room, keep the phone put away at the dinner table, leave the phone in your bag more often, etc.).
You may notice on my Instagram or Facebook accounts, most of the pictures I post are taken by me, of me.
"Oh, she's so vain...always taking photos of herself."
"Isn't it about the moment? Why take so many selfies?"
....are a couple statements hurled my way. *Shrug.*
Let me clear one thing up: I definitely do not go hiking for the photos. I have hiked with a couple people who do this and kind of get bummed because once they take a photo, they're ready to go. They don't know how to enjoy what they just photographed.
Have you seen Walter Mitty? The scene where he finally meets up with Sean O'Connell, just as he is about to snap a photo of the tiger -- and then he doesn't take the photo.
Why not? Sean says:
"If I like a moment, for me, personally, I don't like to have the distraction of the camera. I just want to stay in it."
I totally teared up when I saw that part of the movie, because I know exactly what he is talking about.
....that is why I hike. Why I travel. Why I take a walk. Why I get to know myself.
It's all about the moments. They are everything.
So, then, why all the selfies?
When I learned that my purpose in life was to inspire others, I first had to grow up a bit in the way of caring what others thought. I started sharing my words from the heart, without holding anything back, and taking photos that matched the words or vice-versa. I became extremely honest with myself so that I could be extremely honest with others.
Instagram was the best place for me to start. Hilarious, right?
At the time, I had a job that sucked the time and life from my life, and was also (still am) a loner who preferred more me-time than us-time, we-time, etc., and so social media became my platform to interact with people.
Writers write autobiographies, painters paint self-portraits, and so do photographers.
I have always loved photography, and know I have a decent eye for framing and editing, so I chose to use that gift for my purpose: to inspire others.
Enter: the GoPro + trekking pole combo = perfect selfie setup on the slopes or hikes! ;)
By telling my story, I can show others that they are not so far away from their own stories. By taking selfies and then including my thoughts when the photo was taken, or random thoughts having nothing to do with the photo, I am sharing my story.
It changes others' perception of what they can or can't do, because I have a public timeline of where I've been and people can tag along with where I am.
Even I find myself flipping through old selfies and remember what I was thinking and how I felt when I snapped the selfie. It is very nostalgic and also shows me how far I have come.
I can't believe in less than a year all the things I have done. If I had not taken selfies, I would probably still remember them, but I get to visually recall them and that is so much more vivid and meaningful to me!
Seriously - I love The Selfie.
I am 100% in support of The Selfie.
Why?
Because I am an advocate, ambassador, lover, and enthusiast of -- The Selfie.
Some folks would say that they go into nature to expel technology (if just for a 2 hour hike) from their lives. I get that.
We won't go into ways you can daily expel technology from you life right now. (Don't sleep with your phone in the room, keep the phone put away at the dinner table, leave the phone in your bag more often, etc.).
You may notice on my Instagram or Facebook accounts, most of the pictures I post are taken by me, of me.
"Oh, she's so vain...always taking photos of herself."
"Isn't it about the moment? Why take so many selfies?"
....are a couple statements hurled my way. *Shrug.*
Let me clear one thing up: I definitely do not go hiking for the photos. I have hiked with a couple people who do this and kind of get bummed because once they take a photo, they're ready to go. They don't know how to enjoy what they just photographed.
Have you seen Walter Mitty? The scene where he finally meets up with Sean O'Connell, just as he is about to snap a photo of the tiger -- and then he doesn't take the photo.
Why not? Sean says:
"If I like a moment, for me, personally, I don't like to have the distraction of the camera. I just want to stay in it."
I totally teared up when I saw that part of the movie, because I know exactly what he is talking about.
....that is why I hike. Why I travel. Why I take a walk. Why I get to know myself.
It's all about the moments. They are everything.
So, then, why all the selfies?
When I learned that my purpose in life was to inspire others, I first had to grow up a bit in the way of caring what others thought. I started sharing my words from the heart, without holding anything back, and taking photos that matched the words or vice-versa. I became extremely honest with myself so that I could be extremely honest with others.
Instagram was the best place for me to start. Hilarious, right?
At the time, I had a job that sucked the time and life from my life, and was also (still am) a loner who preferred more me-time than us-time, we-time, etc., and so social media became my platform to interact with people.
Writers write autobiographies, painters paint self-portraits, and so do photographers.
I have always loved photography, and know I have a decent eye for framing and editing, so I chose to use that gift for my purpose: to inspire others.
Enter: the GoPro + trekking pole combo = perfect selfie setup on the slopes or hikes! ;)
It changes others' perception of what they can or can't do, because I have a public timeline of where I've been and people can tag along with where I am.
Even I find myself flipping through old selfies and remember what I was thinking and how I felt when I snapped the selfie. It is very nostalgic and also shows me how far I have come.
I can't believe in less than a year all the things I have done. If I had not taken selfies, I would probably still remember them, but I get to visually recall them and that is so much more vivid and meaningful to me!
Seriously - I love The Selfie.
Going Out Alone: Tips + Encouragement to Those Who Enjoy Flying Solo
I know better than to get egotistical about being in Nature alone, because when it comes down to it, Nature will always win against the ego.
Having hiked around 20 peaks since moving to Colorado in March, I have learned a TON about hiking in the mountains*:
What to take:
- Water.
- Food.
- Good Shoes: bad shoes can ruin a hike. I'm nursing two yucky heel-blisters right now.
- Trekking Poles and/or gel inserts to save your knees during descents.
- Breathable clothing.
- Layers: you will remove and put-on layers frequently during hikes above tree-line.
- ClifBar Bloks or that tasty Honey Stinger energy goo: these are amazing for bursts of energy!
- Water.
- Water.
- Water.
- A water filter in case you need to drink from a stream. I use the LifeStraw.
- Water.
What to know:
- The weather will change, and it is probably against you.
- Start early. Get off the peaks & back to tree-line before noon to be safe from afternoon storms.
- Leave water in your car, so when you run out on the trail, you have something to gulp down when you get back.
- Take waterproof everything - the weather can and WILL change on you!
- Tell more than one person your plans, time estimates, and check in if you happen to get service on the mountain. (Yesterday, I had service for my entire hike on Quandary).
- If something doesn't feel right, LISTEN to that. Turn around, bail, etc. Intuition exists for a reason.
*These are MY findings. Nothing official or professional. Feel free to comment & tell me what I've missed, for I am still learning. :)
Why Go Alone?:
Ladies, get ready for people to really care about you when they find out you want to do things like travel or hike alone. I don't know if it's the same for guys, but I get lots of cared concern from friends/family when I let them know I'm heading out (to hike) alone. I absolutely love going on hikes & traveling alone because I get to completely open up and take in everything around me. I also love going with people, because I get new perspectives and have great conversation.
However, if you do not normally venture out solo, here is why it's a great thing to try:
- You learn more about yourself: when you're out alone, you don't have other people to silence your own thoughts. It gets interesting to see what your mind does when it's unleashed.
- You can try new things, while nobody else is watching: it's interesting to be by yourself and try things simply for the sake of trying them. You don't have to worry about what anyone else thinks, and you can fail or succeed, and then take pride in the fact that you gave it a try.
- You find confidence: doing things on your own shows you what you are capable of. Insane confidence-booster.
- You find new perspectives: take yourself out of the normal social situation: it leaves you with you. Your perspective can change just as much on your own, as in group gatherings. Allow yourself to see everything, for the sake of seeing it.
- You get the chance to face your fears: yesterday, I hiked for about an hour with a headlamp, in the woods, alone. I could hear my heart beating in my ears, because my #1 fear during a hike is running into an animal who hasn't eaten. I usually let my intuition guide me during these type of situations.
I encourage everyone to get out there on your own. A hike, a road trip, whatever. You will refresh you soul, your perspective and find out more about yourself.
Do you already go out alone? What do you like about it?
Ending My 28th Year: Success, Mistakes, & Subtle Findings.
In a couple of Saturdays, I will be 29.
Smeh.
It's not 30, so it's not a huge deal. It's similar to turning 19. You're barely an adult, but not quite adult-enough for most things.
This weekend, I will be hiking a Birthday 14er with a friend, and next weekend my boyfriend of 3+ years will be coming to Colorado to visit. My plan is to convince him to move here, or just be late to the airport for his flight home.
My 28th year has been a year for the books. It's important to list your successes, so here I go for a moment:
I moved from Texas to Colorado.
I finished my Yoga Teacher Certification.
I quit my job of 5 years.
I started a new job - and I love it (social media + yoga = happy Tiffiny).
I traveled to Bali.
I got "Bali Belly."
I got to meet, hang out with, and enjoy the company of Tara Stiles (the reason I am a yoga teacher).
I traveled to Texas. 5x.
I travled to Utah.
I traveled up a few mountains. 9 14ers, who knows how many non-14ers. (See Flatlander to Mountaineer).
It's also important to be aware of your missteps, but not hold them against yourself. Just remember the lessons you learned. So:
I started listing all my mistakes, but each time I listed a backpedal, I had an anecdote about what I had learned. So, the mistakes don't even matter anymore. Right now matters, and being able to match a learn to a screw-up = don't worry about the screw up. Just keep it on the shelf in case you're in a similar situation again, and need to remember what you learned.
A list of subtle findings I have discovered this year:
Keep moving forward.
Always say yes to travel. Always.
Be kind to people.
Tip well (always at least $2, unless 20% is more).
Keep a gallon of water in your trunk. If I-70 shuts down, and it will, you'll get thirsty.
Drink water, all the time. Living at 5k feet, you have to.
Don't try to get a job as a newly certified yoga teacher in Boulder, CO - just don't even try. They want the best of the best.
Be straight with people. Even when you're working at the Apple Store and they think a virus is on their Mac, but really it's just adware from the illicit website they visited.
Be straight with people, even outside of the Apple Store.
People are selfish, don't worry about them & don't take it personally. Just make sure you're the one who IS saying thank you.
In Bali, there are no traffic laws.
In Bali, the monkeys in Ubud WILL eye your GoPro.
In Bali, being the first customer of the day in the market = good luck for you and the patron.
In Bali, the art of devotion is a way of life, and it is beautiful.
In Bali, don't drink the water. Two exits if you do: both ends.
Talk to the panhandlers in Boulder - not all of them are drunks. They have stories.
Eat meat if you want to. Even in Boulder.
Don't eat seafood in Boulder.
Do eat seafood in Tokyo: during your layover, head toward Shinjuku Station & make a dash for SUSHI! (and then hurry back to catch your 10 hour flight home).
Don't objectify money. If you don't need it don't buy it. If you want quality, buy it. Don't do or not do something because of the price of it. Find freedom from money by not giving a shit about it. Seriously.
Meditate.
Give more than you can, get, have, or want to. It comes back to you...in the most magical and unexplainable ways.
Manifest what you want in your life. Your thoughts create your world.
Be open...to everything.
I am really proud of myself this year. I'm still not as forward-moving as I want to be, but I will get there. I feel like I have been happy 95% of the year, except when I'm PMSing, but I am self-aware and have stopped thinking there is something wrong with me every month.
It doesn't have to take a birthday to cause one to reflect. Try and find time every day to do it. You begin to see how incredibly beautiful life is and it continues to be so.
- Thoughts During My Final 9 Days as a 28-year-old.
Smeh.
It's not 30, so it's not a huge deal. It's similar to turning 19. You're barely an adult, but not quite adult-enough for most things.
This weekend, I will be hiking a Birthday 14er with a friend, and next weekend my boyfriend of 3+ years will be coming to Colorado to visit. My plan is to convince him to move here, or just be late to the airport for his flight home.
My 28th year has been a year for the books. It's important to list your successes, so here I go for a moment:
I moved from Texas to Colorado.
I finished my Yoga Teacher Certification.
I quit my job of 5 years.
I started a new job - and I love it (social media + yoga = happy Tiffiny).
I traveled to Bali.
I got "Bali Belly."
I got to meet, hang out with, and enjoy the company of Tara Stiles (the reason I am a yoga teacher).
I traveled to Texas. 5x.
I travled to Utah.
I traveled up a few mountains. 9 14ers, who knows how many non-14ers. (See Flatlander to Mountaineer).
It's also important to be aware of your missteps, but not hold them against yourself. Just remember the lessons you learned. So:
I started listing all my mistakes, but each time I listed a backpedal, I had an anecdote about what I had learned. So, the mistakes don't even matter anymore. Right now matters, and being able to match a learn to a screw-up = don't worry about the screw up. Just keep it on the shelf in case you're in a similar situation again, and need to remember what you learned.
A list of subtle findings I have discovered this year:
Keep moving forward.
Always say yes to travel. Always.
Be kind to people.
Tip well (always at least $2, unless 20% is more).
Keep a gallon of water in your trunk. If I-70 shuts down, and it will, you'll get thirsty.
Drink water, all the time. Living at 5k feet, you have to.
Don't try to get a job as a newly certified yoga teacher in Boulder, CO - just don't even try. They want the best of the best.
Be straight with people. Even when you're working at the Apple Store and they think a virus is on their Mac, but really it's just adware from the illicit website they visited.
Be straight with people, even outside of the Apple Store.
People are selfish, don't worry about them & don't take it personally. Just make sure you're the one who IS saying thank you.
In Bali, there are no traffic laws.
In Bali, the monkeys in Ubud WILL eye your GoPro.
In Bali, being the first customer of the day in the market = good luck for you and the patron.
In Bali, the art of devotion is a way of life, and it is beautiful.
In Bali, don't drink the water. Two exits if you do: both ends.
Talk to the panhandlers in Boulder - not all of them are drunks. They have stories.
Eat meat if you want to. Even in Boulder.
Don't eat seafood in Boulder.
Do eat seafood in Tokyo: during your layover, head toward Shinjuku Station & make a dash for SUSHI! (and then hurry back to catch your 10 hour flight home).
Don't objectify money. If you don't need it don't buy it. If you want quality, buy it. Don't do or not do something because of the price of it. Find freedom from money by not giving a shit about it. Seriously.
Meditate.
Give more than you can, get, have, or want to. It comes back to you...in the most magical and unexplainable ways.
Manifest what you want in your life. Your thoughts create your world.
Be open...to everything.
I am really proud of myself this year. I'm still not as forward-moving as I want to be, but I will get there. I feel like I have been happy 95% of the year, except when I'm PMSing, but I am self-aware and have stopped thinking there is something wrong with me every month.
It doesn't have to take a birthday to cause one to reflect. Try and find time every day to do it. You begin to see how incredibly beautiful life is and it continues to be so.
- Thoughts During My Final 9 Days as a 28-year-old.
Monday Morning Music: A Playlist!
Did you know Spotify lets you share playlists?Well, now you do.
Here is a playlist I made for anyone who wants to listen. If I can keep up with this, I would love to share a new playlist, weekly.
Here is this weeks' playlist, which includes The Morning Benders, Wolf Parade, Blood Brothers, etc.
Monday Music 10/13
Enjoy!
Autumn in Boulder + Thoughts About Feeling Stuck
Yesterday, I spent most of my morning-to-mid-afternoon running errands. I had to get 4 new tires on my car - apparently you're supposed to rotate them every 5k miles?! The two rear were, "cupped," and the two front, balled. Why do tire-conditions have such suggestive terms? I definitely feel better about winter with new tires though.
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| My first day in Boulder, March 2014. |
While at Discount Tire, I continued reading the most recent book I have started, "Michael Caine: The Elephant to Hollywood." I have increasingly become more interested in the lives of interesting people, and Michael Caine is definitely one of them.
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I have been reading this book aloud in my mind, with Michael Caine's voice. How can you not?
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After finishing up the tire situation, I met up with Laurie and Katie for fall-frolicking in a nearby pumpkin patch. We definitely got lost in the corn maze; Katie was pretty good at finding all the dead ends.
All in all, the day was fun.
Let me digress into a more somber topic: feeling stuck.
I am still working things out in my head, but how in the world can I feel stuck already? I felt stuck in Texas and now I feel stuck in Colorado. It just goes to show that you can't physically move and expect things to change.
You change from within.
That doesn't mean you have to stay put, but it does put meaning into, "bloom where you're planted."
I am not leaving Colorado right now, so I have no choice but to figure out what blooming looks like, from where I am.
Autumn is my favorite season, and maybe it's because I get most reflective and inward-bound during this season. If you know anything about ayurverda, autumn is all about the vata dosha...becoming a bit out of balance. My birthday is also this month, so I wonder what being a vata & a libra-scorpio-cusp in Autumn, during Mercury Retrograde has to do with things...
I do not feel grounded, I want to flee everything and everyone, and/or just hide and wait for the, "stuckness," to go away. (How whiney do I sound right now??)
That's really not how it works though, is it?
First of all, it is ok to feel stuck.
Feeling stuck gives you chances to look around and notice things that you might not have. After all, you feel like you're not going anywhere, so you begin to reflect more.
Secondly, be aware that feeling stuck can be a bit dangerous.
We can become restless and make choices we might not have otherwise made. (More on this, once I am done processing some of my recent choices).
Lastly, sometimes feeling stuck means that our life is about to turn another direction; one we might not have expected.
I know that is happening in my life right now. I have been camping out at cafes, writing, reading, and studying more than I have since I dropped out of college. I know that I want to write a movie and a memoir, and so I am preparing for that journey.
So, as I write this, I am encouraging myself & you: just let yourself be stuck. There is a reason for it, and if you try to see what you can learn from it, you will be thankful for it. After all, not feeling stuck is so much more beautiful when you know how it feels to be stuck.
So, as I write this, I am encouraging myself & you: just let yourself be stuck. There is a reason for it, and if you try to see what you can learn from it, you will be thankful for it. After all, not feeling stuck is so much more beautiful when you know how it feels to be stuck.
Books I Have Enjoyed: Lena Dunham's, "Not That Kind of Girl."
Having just finished Lena Dunham's book, "Not That Kind of Girl: A Young Woman Tells You What She's Learned," at Boulder Baked: a super fun little spot off Pearl Street. I am now about to eat the cookies ’n’ cream cupcake I bought to, “celebrate.” For some reason her book made me want to celebrate the ending…with a cupcake.
(Later that evening, I will have regretted the cupcake celebration; I never eat that much sugar in one setting. Can you say, "immediate sugar hangover?")
I milked this book on purpose, taking less than 4 days to complete. I loved reading it so much, I wanted to take my time with it. (I always rush books. Currently, I am also speeding through a Michael Caine autobio, and "Hector and the Search For Happiness.")
Lena is so witty, which isn’t surprising, but she is also completely candid in each essay. You can tell that she has absolutely been this way her entire life.
Do not read this book if:
- You are not comfortable with yourself, or open to being comfortable with yourself.
- You don’t like hearing about others’ coming-of-age experiences. (Lena tells you all about hers; literally, bares all).
- You don’t like, “Girls.”
- You filter your life, especially from yourself.
- You don’t think most (all) girls have had issues with food, drinking, guys, etc.
Do read this book if:
- You are self-aware.
- You are not self-aware, but are open to it
- You enjoy humorous & witty memoirs!
- You have enjoyed other females’ memoirs: Elizabeth Wurtzel, Marya Hornbacher, Susanna Kaysen, etc.
- You like, “Girls.”
- You want an honest look into the mind of more girls than you think.
- You are a woman.
- You are a girl.
This opened up a flood of inspiration for me and I am so thankful that it was written. I am excited to see what happens over the next year with my creative goals, but what I learned most from reading this book is to continue being honest: with myself, with others, and most importantly, since I mentioned it twice: with myself.
Lena made me feel like I was not alone, when I was 7. When I was 12. When I was 27. Today.
It is a beautiful, veracious, inappropriate, collection of essays that most females can probably recite, and find familiarity with.
Well done, Lena.