As I have been interviewing with an array of schools from four different continents, I am torn up inside trying to decide on the best match for myself as I can literally envision myself living the dream at any of these locations. I truly only applied to schools in locations I am interested in relocating to, though one would be hard pressed to find a place I wouldn’t want to go to. So now I am left to ponder, “What is my why?”

I obviously set about recruiting this year for a reason, or set of reasons, which need to be reflected on in order for me to make the best decision for my future. Here are my reasons, not in any particular order:

• 💰 Get out of debt.
• 😊 Acquire a position I am passionate about.
• 🤹 Find a work/life balance.
• 🏝️ Seek a stunning view.
• 🌍 Access an International community.
• 🩻 Ensure good health care.
• 👵 Insist on a retirement package.
• 👨‍🍼 Relocate where I could visit with my son, Sean, easily.
• 🚛 Retain my RV.
• 🐈‍⬛ Be cat friendly.

To be fulfilled at this stage of my life requires that be motivated at work and inspired by my surroundings. To trade in what I have now requires that I consider all the advantages and disadvantages of both lives.

Currently I have gorgeous views, access to my son, modern amenities, health care, and a retirement package. However, it is expensive and the my work life is all consuming.

If I hold out for the ideal location, I will be acquiring a fascinating location with inspiring views, a simple lifestyle where I can utilize my creative energies on both my work and to my personal pursuits. To be released from the financial burden created by living in the states would be wonderful so that I can focus on providing a solid education for Sean and for my eventual retirement.

Knowing your why will allow you to make the most important decisions confidently. My experience has taught me that we all end up right where we needed to be regardless of all the planning and other attempts to control a situation. Therefore, I live with no regrets about the career decisions I have made, but it helps knowing that I am flexible enough to be able to live anywhere for two years. Some people can get so tied to the ideas of loyalty to a workplace, retirement security, or family obligations that they don’t always take the risks that will lead to greater satisfaction and overall well-being for themselves. Had I played it safe, I never would have been able to take the trip of a lifetime to Cuba while working abroad in Sāo Paulo, Brazil and what a pity it would have been to miss that.