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2012: Leaving Comfort

2012 December 31
by Stanley Quan

Although I actually left California for my new job in November 2011, I think my year 2012 was defined by the move.

Before now, my last trip home was last Christmas, a year ago. So 2012 has pretty much been me, out in Madison and other parts of the country, outside of that comfort zone.

Looking back, I still can’t quite believe I took the offer, packed up my life in four suitcases, and transplanted myself in Wisconsin.

But I loved it. Loved the chance to see another part of the world. Loved the leap it took. Loved the freshness.

If you ever get the chance to just go somewhere no strings attached, I wholeheartedly recommend it.

Put yourself out there, physically, mentally, geographically. You’ll be surprised what a little perspective will do to you.

On the work side, I’ve enjoyed my job, including the perks and drawbacks of frequent travel. Check out these stats for the year:

  • 28 trips
  • 106 days on the road
  • 52,000 miles

Being on the road for about a third of the year is pretty crazy and was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced before. It’s a weird combined feeling of both wanderlust and homelessness. It also makes for lots of priorities to juggle, creative uses of hour-long layovers in airports, and times zones to consider.

It has definitely been a fun year though. I got to explore a new place, meet new friends, and learn a new me.

And to cap it off, I got to come home for the last couple weeks of it to catch up with that old place, old friends, old me.

Here’s to an even better 2013!

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One Response
  1. Lisa Quan permalink
    January 6, 2013

    Cherish 2012 & better 2013!

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