Being outside the US, I found more freedom to expand in how I experience my identity, cultures & family.

In Portugal I made a small mindset shift, inviting myself to remember my needs, desires and dreams, and instead of shutting them down, embracing curiosity at what could be possible.

Solo travel reminds me that a different life is possible as I become a stranger in a new place and see the different ways that people live. It reminds me that I have the power and possibility to become who I want to be.

With this sabbatical I’m leaving behind what crushed me in my early adulthood. I can feel a new version of me emerging, so unfamiliar, but also reminiscent of something from long ago.