Approaching the Big 30 can seem somewhat daunting to those not wanting to leave their twenties behind. Some people feel that this time is when you should have realised your dreams and if you have not by the time you are 30 then it may be too late. This is far from being the case.
I set up being30.com to show people you are never too old to pursue your dreams (and for me it was to travel).
The principles of being30.com apply to all ages:
- You can realise your dream at any age
- Make the most out of every opportunity
- Don't waste time regretting
1. One Job is Not For Life
I have lost my job twice in four years. Once due to bankruptcy before I was 29 and the company was closed within 24 hours. That was quite a shock and since then my outlook on jobs and careers has changed considerably. I did not take anything for granted before and neither have I since.
There will always be people who do take work and that regular pay check for granted and that may be why many have not pursued their dreams as they become comfortable in their way of life. On the other hand, if someone has had the same job for a number of years they may be scared to leave it and do something uncertain such as travelling.
2. We are Living Longer
This means we do not have to rush and do all the travelling in our twenties. We have plenty of time. More and more people are also settling down later on in life. So if you have not found your "partner in crime" as I call it, by the time you are 30, then you can still find one after. Sure it can be a little depressing seeing all your friends settle down and you may feel like you are the last one on the shelf. Be positive, you will find someone to go travelling with and build a life together.
3. There is Always a Deal for Travelling
If you have no children who have holidays at a certain time or if you do not work according to the school system, then you can travel off peak season. There will always be a discount travelling in the low season. If you are flexible with your dates, accommodation and flights are a lot cheaper. For example with Easyjet, the cheapest time to travel is Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
In the past 4 years I have travelled more than I did in my twenties. Probably because in my twenties I was at Uni and then after was working and never really earned enough to be able to visit many places. I was lucky that I had seen a lot of countries and cities when I was younger through my father's job, but when I hit 30, I wanted to see more. Having no children and not being restricted with school holidays has allowed me to see the world at a more affordable price.
4. The World is Getting Smaller
Previously a job was for life and it may have been difficult to move from one company to another or even work abroad. Now, with many countries opening their doors to people under 30, it can be easier to get a working visa.
For Europeans where visas are not an issue, moving within Europe after 30 years old is possible. For Australia or America, it can be slightly more difficult after 30. However, there are many companies who will sponsor you if you have the right experience.
5. Don't Live With Regret
When I am older, I never want to wonder "if only" or "I wish I had done that". It may be scary to go to a new place or try a new activity but that should not prevent you from going to that new destination. If there is somewhere you have always wanted to go, don't let fear prevent you. Do not make an excuse for not doing something and regretting it later. If there is something you really want to do, "Just Do It" as Nike says.
To those who may be unhappy in their current line of work or personal life, it is only you who can change your situation. If you're not happy, think about what you can do to change things. If you have some money in your bank account, you can still go and pursue your dreams. If you don't do it now, it will be too late and the last thing you want to do is live with regret.
Images: I have taken all photos in this post. The top image was from a billboard in the London tube.