Not a Holiday, Just My Life

I often hear, “Wow, what a life!”

And while yes, I do love the life I’ve created, it’s come with plenty of sacrifice. It’s not always as it seems.

Right now, I’m in Bosnia. You might assume I’m off gallivanting—traveling, eating, exploring. And yes, sometimes that’s true. But the reality? I’m sitting here in my PJs, working from a modest little apartment I found for under AUD $100 a night (because blowing my life savings in a year isn’t exactly the goal).

You see, I sold my house after years—years—of scrimping and saving. Rarely eating out. Takeaway was a treat. I didn’t travel. I worked. I built my business slowly. I’m still building it.

I earn less than most Australians would even dare to consider acceptable. Nothing compared to my old corporate days that's for sure! But I believe in what I do. I believe in the joy and difference my work can bring. And I believe in the lifestyle I’ve chosen.

But let’s be real—it comes with sacrifices.

I don’t own a home. There’s no investment property quietly appreciating in the background. Right now, my life is nomadic. I live out of a suitcase and rely on the kindness of family here in Austria and back home in Australia.

It gets lonely. Sometimes. I miss my family, my friends and my dog. Or sharing a meal, a moment in time.

There’s barely a day I don’t work. I’m the web designer, the bookkeeper, the social media manager, the copywriter, the marketer. All hats, one head. I’m not on holiday—this is my life.

Sure, I get to explore amazing places. But it’s not like those two-week getaways where you down tools and sit by the pool sipping cocktails. My days are a mix of adventure and admin.

And just to be clear: I’m not writing this for sympathy, or to complain. I love this life. I chose this life. I created this life. But it’s not for everyone and I don't want to perpetuate the whole 'Insta' thing the world has got going on right now.

There’s a lot of uncertainty. A lot of leaning into discomfort. Living way outside my comfort zone. My wardrobe? A fraction of what it used to be. My kitchen tools? Minimalist at best. And oh, how I miss some of those things. My lamp. A garden. A home.

But I know that will come again.

Right now, I’m trying something different. Testing myself. Challenging myself. Seeing what’s possible.

Sure, there are fears about the future. And moments of questioning—my choices, my sanity. But I have to try. I have to live with no regrets. No “what ifs.”

I might fail gloriously. And that’s okay. Because I’ll always be okay.

So next time you feel a twinge of envy when you see one of my travel pics, just remember: they’re real, unfiltered, and joyful—but they’re just one part of the story.

And if this is a life you truly want to create for yourself, I’ve got your back.

Oh—and let’s not forget the language barriers. I'm super grateful for Google Translate! But also? The magic that happens beyond words. Like the warm hug from the apartment owner here. Or the simple smile exchanged with a stranger on the street.

This is my life. It’s raw and real and weird and beautiful. And I wouldn't have it any other way.

A Hike out to these amazing Water Mills on the Pliva River, Jajce, Bosnia & Herzegovina. A 13km round trip from town and it was about 10 degrees. Jumped into a hot shower on my return and Netflixed!