As part of the inspiring force to help you ‘take the leap of faith’, we will be conducting mini interviews featuring global entrepreneurs who have become “Business Backpackers”. Because we are all busy travelling, working, and having loads of fun, it is a short list of questions that will hopefully give you a quick glimpse of others “Living the Life”.
Our first mini-view comes from Chris Guillebeau, author of the blog ‘The Art of Nonconformity’ and creator of the following products:
• Create Your Own Freedom: Break Out of the 9-5
• Become Your Own Travel Ninja: Go Anywhere, Anytime
At the time of this posting, Chris has visited 103 of 197 countries. We were lucky enough to meet up with Chris on his way thorough Bangkok. It was a wonderful evening of sharing ideas, thoughts, and inspiration about leading an ‘alternative lifestyle’. I hope you enjoy the questions and comments below and feel free to get in touch with Chris, details below.
How did you know you didn’t fit in to conventional society?
I tried to fit in but never felt comfortable. I always had the feeling that “there must be more out there.” Everyone agrees that life is short, but most people don’t take actions that reflect that belief. I wanted to join the club of people who are not only unsatisfied with the status quo but also brave enough to step out and do something about it.
What do you currently do & please describe a brief roadmap of the haphazard leaps of faith that got you here today…
I am a writer, world traveler, and social entrepreneur. I’m very fortunate that most days of my life, I pretty much do whatever I want. I work hard (30+ hours a week wherever I am) but on projects that matter to me, not things I do for a job. There have been many pitfalls along the way – I have to deal with insecurity and depression from time to time – but I know I’m doing the right thing. I’m glad so many other people are enjoying the journey as well.
Your most life changing travel place & why?
I don’t have just one place, but definitely the four years I spent in West Africa served as the foundation for my worldview.
Encouraging words you would pass on to readers: If you could have had someone there when you took the leap of faith, what would you have needed to hear the most?
Don’t be afraid. You don’t have to live your life the way other people expect you to.
Get In Touch With Chris…
http://chrisguillebeau.com/3×5
http://www.twitter.com/chrisguillebeau
Comments, questions, other questions you would like us to ask? Please leave below…
Twitter Updates
15 March 2009 at 7:36 am
Brooke, thanks so much for the profile! I really appreciate you taking the time. The upgraded BB site looks fantastic.
19 March 2009 at 9:59 am
103 out of 197 countries! That’s fantastic.
I completely agree about breaking out of the status quo…I have so many 20-something friends who got on the conventional career/marriage/mortgage/babies track without realizing it was happening. They sigh and say, “I wish I could do what you do,” but don’t embrace the fear and DO it.
Chris, you sold me–I’m a new Art of Nonconformity subscriber.
25 March 2009 at 7:59 am
I have been confronted with the topic recently a lot, so your interview just fits into my status. Thanks for the chance encounter to Chris and Brooke!
See you