Living Outside The Box

"I may not have gone where I intended to go, but I believe I’m on the path I’m meant to be."

As we get older, it’s easy to get trapped in society’s idea of what life "should" look like. By the time we hit 40, there’s a well-defined picture of success: owning a home, starting a family, climbing the career ladder. But as I approach this milestone, I’m choosing to remind myself that true happiness isn’t found in checking off someone else’s list. It’s found in stepping outside the box, embracing the unexpected, and allowing life to unfold in its own unique way.

Sure, my path hasn’t always been conventional, and I’ve often found myself comparing my journey to others, wondering why I’m not where they are. But when I take a step back and reflect, I see how much I’ve gained by stepping off the well-worn road. Life may not have gone according to plan, but I’m proud of the unexpected milestones I’ve reached along the way.

I’ve traveled to over 40 countries, lived in three (yes, I’m counting Canada!), and experienced some of the world’s most incredible sights, including the Seven Wonders. I’ve achieved personal fitness goals and won awards—playing soccer, running marathons, as well as competing in weightlifting, CrossFit, and HyROX events. I’ve earned certifications in multiple disciplines, and I’ve spent over 17 years trying to inspire both students and teachers as an educator.

Most importantly, I’ve navigated much of this journey on my own. While the solo path hasn’t always been easy, it’s made me stronger and more resilient. The sense of accomplishment I feel when I reflect on my journey is unmatched.

So, as I approach 40, I’m choosing to celebrate my own unconventional path. There’s no one-size-fits-all roadmap to happiness or success. What matters is that I’ve stayed true to myself, embraced the unexpected, and found joy in the simple things. After all, living outside the box is the greatest adventure of all.