If you’ve ever felt “caught up” in the rat race sometimes we need to travel to gain perspective on the hamster wheel we’re running in. The constant “What do you do for work? Who do you know? Where did you go to school? What kind of car do you drive? How big is your house?” Blah blah blah.
It’s exhausting.
And to be honest, does it REALLY matter? Not “does it matter to everyone else”, but rather “does it matter TO YOU”?
While traveling in NYC, I am reminded of the (very) cushy corporate life I used to live while I was there. I traded all my time and freedom for a paycheck.
The tradeoff? I didn’t have a life outside the 4 walls of my office and I never felt I truly got to enjoy the city I was paying so much to “live” in.
I share stories of how I used to compete in the rat race and how a bike ride from Bangkok, Thailand to Siem Reap, Cambodia made me change my mind about what “happiness” is.
The poorest people I’ve ever met in my life were some of the happiest, and therefore, richest people I’ve ever met in my life…
The audio version of this blog post can be found in the full podcast episode below!
What is the rat race?
The term “rat race” originated in the United States in the mid-20th century, and it is believed to have been inspired by the image of rats competing to reach the finish line in a race.
The “rat race” is a term used to describe a hectic, competitive, and often stressful lifestyle that is focused on working long hours, pursuing material wealth, and trying to keep up with the expectations of society. It is often associated with the struggle to keep up with the demands of modern life, including long commutes, long working hours, and the pressure to constantly achieve more and attain greater wealth and status.
The term is often used to describe the sense that one is caught in a cycle of endless work and pursuit of success, without much time for leisure or personal fulfillment. It suggests a sense of competition and urgency, as if one is constantly racing against others to attain success and prosperity.
The “rat race” can be seen as a negative aspect of modern society, as it can lead to burnout, stress, and a lack of balance between work and personal life. Some people choose to opt out of the rat race by pursuing careers or lifestyles that prioritize work-life balance, personal fulfillment, and a more sustainable pace of life.
The visual version of this podcast (set to drone shots I took in South Florida) can be found in the video below…
Getting out of the rat race
Getting out of the “rat race” can be a challenging process, but it can also be a rewarding one. Here are some steps you can take to break free from the cycle of stress and competition:
- Evaluate your priorities: Take some time to reflect on what is most important to you, what brings you joy and fulfillment, and what you want to achieve in life.
- Re-define success: Consider what success means to you, beyond just financial or material wealth. Think about what kind of life you want to lead, and what will bring you a sense of satisfaction and happiness.
- Create a budget: Take control of your finances by creating a budget and sticking to it. This can help you reduce debt, save money, and avoid living beyond your means.
- Consider alternative careers or lifestyles: Look into careers or lifestyles that prioritize work-life balance, flexibility, and personal fulfillment. For example, you might consider freelancing, starting a business, or working from home.
- Practice mindfulness: Take time to focus on the present moment, breathe, and reduce stress. Engage in activities that bring you joy and peace, such as yoga, meditation, or hobbies.
- Surround yourself with positive people: Seek out supportive and encouraging friends and family members who will help you stay focused on your goals and maintain a healthy perspective.
Remember, getting out of the “rat race” takes time, effort, and patience. Be kind to yourself and take things one step at a time. With a clear sense of purpose and a plan, you can break free from the cycle of stress and competition and pursue a more fulfilling life.
About the podcast
Inspirational stories to help you be just 1% more badass than you were yesterday. Our BIG badass moments in life are made possible by the the culmination of our SMALL badass moments. I keep it REAL. Made with love WHILE TRAVELING.