The Passenger: My Scotland Journey into the Unknown
I arrived in Edinburgh, Scotland, with no expectations—only the desire to follow the slowly illuminating path I began in 2023. That year revealed what was missing in my life; 2024 brought it into focus. Now here I am: on my first trip within this new life I’m creating—taking the leap into a five-week Scotland journey.
I arrived completely alone—yet, surprisingly, unafraid. Maybe that’s because I was tired of being a detached observer of my own life—a passenger. Now, I’m driving. Or at least, trying my best.
Pushing Beyond My Comfort Zone in Scotland
This first week of my five-week Scotland itinerary has me already contemplating my comfort zone. Top of the list: in less than a week, driving in Scotland as an American (ie, on the wrong side of the road). My Rick Steves guidebook comes with plenty of warnings—road etiquette, confusing signage, endless roundabouts, and the dreaded single-track roads. Add to that an unfamiliar rental car. Not my little Prius, but maybe a Mini Cooper—fun, but different!
I’m nervous, but I know mobility is necessary. As a photographer, I want the freedom to linger in places and to wander where buses and trains may not easily go. This time, the journey itself is part of the adventure.
Scottish National War Memorial, Edinburgh Castle — Edinburgh, Scotland
Redesigning My Life through Travel
Another reason I’m here: freedom. The chance to own my next chapter and design life on my terms.
For years, I let my career dictate how I lived—safe, predictable, “fine.” But I don’t want fine anymore. I want a life that lights me up. It’s like how budget season was in the office every year—do you build thoughtfully from zero, or just add 10% to last year’s numbers? I’m choosing to start fresh.
The trade-off to me is clear: leap into the wild unknown—this slowly illuminating path—and risk financial safety, or return to a secure career I know leaves me unhappy. The truth is that neither path guarantees certainty. The job market can be unpredictable, and who knows what retirement will cost, what healthcare will look like, or how long health itself will last?
What I do know is this: I don’t want to look back decades from now, old and gray, wishing I had taken the leap. I have enough regrets already.
Finding Connection on the Road
One thing I wonder about these five weeks: will I feel lonely?
I’m an only child, so being alone is natural for me. Like my cat, I know how to entertain myself. As long as I stay curious about the world—the people, the culture, the history, gritty street art, and nature’s beauty—I don’t think I’ll feel alone. Connection is always there if you’re open to it.
Sure, dinners may feel a little lonely at times. But I believe the road will offer its own opportunities for connection.
What Comes Next
Whether I feel uncertain, exhilarated, or both, this leap is mine. And that’s what matters.