I Left my Job with No Plan – 30 Years Later
Today, I want to talk about what it really means to break free from the 9-to-5 routine and start living a life that feels right for you.
I’m sharing this from a pretty awesome spot called Doggy Beach here in Noosa, where people bring their dogs to run free.
It’s the perfect place to reflect on what freedom can look like.
In this post, I’ll be sharing my three major “break-free” moments that helped me leave the daily grind behind. Over the years, I’ve taken a few different paths – from quitting a steady job without any savings to using my skills in a smart way to build financial freedom.
Hopefully, these stories will inspire you wherever you are on your journey to a more independent, fulfilling life.
The First Break: Leaving It All Behind at 23
At 23, I had just started working as an engineer and by society’s standards, I had it all – a solid job, even a company car and good prospects. But, honestly, I felt stuck. The idea of working my way up in the corporate ladder just didn’t sit right. So, I made a bold choice: I quit.
With no real plan, I packed up, left Australia and set off on an adventure across Canada, the U.S., and Central America.
I was open to all kinds of work, but I ended up in hospitality, making more money as a waiter than I had as an engineer. I explored, worked, and got a taste of freedom that I’d never experienced before.
Along the way, I even joined a wildcat rehab project in Costa Rica. Eventually, I ran low on funds and ended up getting a one way ticket to London where I fell into working in recruitment. The funny thing about that job is that I went in to get a different job and they asked if I wanted to work there.
The Second Break: Starting My Own Business at 30
By 30, I had a serious girlfriend (who’s now my wife), and I felt the pull to build some financial stability. I’d saved up about $50,000, half of which I blew on a little convertible back in Australia.
After 3 years in recruitment, I had learned to make sales, run a small team and felt confident enough to give my own business a crack.
I also hated the idea of working for someone else and felt that I had little choice.
That first business taught me a valuable lesson: if you’re thinking about breaking free, start by using the skills you already have. If I was to do it all again I would think about freelancing, consulting, or using your knowledge to help others. It can be a great way to work less, earn more, and have more control over your time.
The Third Break: Earning Passively and Living Cubicle-Free
Today, I make my living through affiliate marketing and content creation. Over the last decade, I’ve built multiple streams of passive income and made investments that let me enjoy a “cubicle-free” lifestyle.
If I were to start all over today, I’d still look for side hustles that don’t demand too much time or money upfront. Think about your skills and passions and find ways to monetize them with minimal investment. Freelancing, consulting, and content creation are great options to consider if you’re aiming for a life beyond the 9-to-5.
The Key: Mindset and Self-Belief
Breaking away from the 9-to-5 world mostly comes down to your mindset. I recently added meditation to my morning routine, picturing myself as a confident, skilled creator. I’m still new to it and adjusting to speaking in front of the camera, but I’m out of my comfort zone (learning) and connecting with others who are on a similar journey.
If you’re considering making this leap, remember that mindset is everything. Believe in the value you bring to the world. Whether it’s a side hustle or a career change, focus on what makes you unique. For me, it’s all about sharing my journey of living cubicle-free and inspiring others to do the same.
So, where are you now on your own journey to freedom? Are you just starting out, exploring a new idea, or trying to take your side hustle to the next level? Drop your thoughts in the comments – I’d love to hear from you.
Thanks for reading. Cheers to living life on your own terms!
