One thing that I’ve realized in regard to having the lifestyle that I’ve always wanted is the importance of Proximity.  While many of us fanaticize about making our dreams a reality, how many of us literally go the extra miles to where these dreams can actually happen?  On your quest of Finding your Personal Paradise, you may realize that changing your location is the only way to go!

What I mean is this:

Sometimes we need to travel to where our dreams can come true. 

For me, my dream was to live somewhere beautiful (i.e. Paradise) and be within close proximity to where I could do the outdoor adventures that I really love.  This meant being close to the water, where there is amazing climbing.  My two greatest loves are scuba diving and rock climbing, and in order to make this fantasy turn into a reality and lifestyle, it meant relocating to a physical location where I could do these things on a more-than-regular basis.

I tried on several locations in the past…

but it wasn’t until I came back to Thailand that the shoe actually fit.

Being close to the things that you love to do is one of the most important things you can do in your life.

While I realize that some people may have the belief that they can’t just “Up and Move” to a destination that suits them, I have only one question for you:

Are you truly Happy where you are?

There are steps that you can take to put yourself closer to your dreams, and start preparing for your ultimate lifestyle – whatever it is – or more importantly, wherever it is.

How To Find Your Personal Paradise

1. Get clear on your goals – what is it that you love to do?  When do you feel the most alive?
2. Location, Location, Location – start researching and exploring destinations that will allow you to be in close proximity to those goals.
3. Plan an excursion or adventure – you don’t have to immediately drop everything and move, but why not start exploring and get closer to the feel of your dream?
4. Find your spot – many of us need to live in an environment that suits us.  Once you’ve found your spot, you’ll know – and after exploring different locations, you will have a better understanding of your wants, needs, and desires.
5. Commit to making it work – if income is your biggest concern, start exploring opportunities that will fund your adventurous lifestyle.  There are all kinds of creative ways you can live and work abroad like teaching, working in the industry of your favorite hobby, or creating a business that will fund your travel.

When you travel or live within proximity of what you love, you will start making connections with people that will further support your dream.  People that have already made the move towards the lifestyle you are looking for can be fantastic assets in helping you get set up or started in your new Personal Paradise.  Don’t be afraid to start looking now, and start making plans!  You don’t have to have it “All Figured Out” before you go, you are simply gathering information and finding clues to your ultimate destination.

Live Where You Love

Do something every day that gets you one step closer.  Apply for a passport, look up accommodation, get an idea of airlines that travel there and start looking for specials or deals.  Reach out to others through online media, and mentally go to your special place before arriving there in person.

If you follow these steps, I guarantee that you won’t regret it.  The best decision that I’ve ever made was to be within close proximity of the things that I love.  And I wish the same for you!