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[rtwexplorer]

Hi, I returned from my trip of a lifetime a few days ago. My travels, like so many others on this site took me to sa many fantastic places.

But now I'm home. Sure, it had to come to an end at some point, and yes I know how lucky I am to have been able to undertake what I have. My problem is this- I was hoping my gap year would change my life and I would find a new direction to head in. With a mortgage to pay in 2 months when tennants move out of my house I am staring at job ads and it really is knotting my stomach.

Before I get tons of replies advising me to pack up my rucksack again and head off, thats not what I want to do, even if money were no object. For now, I'm all travelled out. I just need to sit and take stock of things and yes, get some normality (god I missed Marmite).

So please help. All those returned gap-yearers out there; how did you face it? Did you manage to find your new direction? Has the ratrace you escaped caught up with you again? Aaaarrrggghhh!

[whereshegoes]

Dear Rtwexplorer,

First off, congratulations!!! You made it home...that in itself is an accomplishment.

I went through exactly the same thing a few months ago. Even knowing it was going to happen (as so many people had warned me), re-entry process was quite overwhelming.

Infact, I totally threw myself into putting all my thoughts into a website I created. Here is an excerpt from it:


Prepare - No one can catch you - landing on your own two feet is part of your experience. But you can land a little more softly. In the very least, you will see it coming by taking a look at the Crash Pad...

Proceed - Find your feet and pace yourself. There are many coping skills and tips you can utilize during this major transition. Reports and recovery plan can be located in Damage Control...

Process - There is a lot of sorting and filing to be done after such a shift. All those experiences have no doubt jammed your memory. Overload can be handled in the Decompression Chamber...

Plan - One you are stabilized and have a sense of order, you can harness your energy into productive strategizing. You can construct your next life dream in the Design Laboratory...

Power - Now that have your new path charted, your mission is next in line for take off at the Launch Pad...

Provide - Just knowing you are not alone makes all the difference. This site will work because you will contribute your experiences and support others while gaining support for yourself in Life Support...

If you want more details you can visit TravelCastle

Let me know what you think. Luckily, I can tell you that it gets better. I have not gotten swallowed up by the ratrace again because I chose to hold out for a job that would better suit my new attitude and approach on life. It paid off! TravelPod offered me a job!

I guess what I am saying is to believe in yourself. You have just come through a huge change and I am sure you have alot to process. Just know that you are not alone. I totally know what you are going through and would love to help you through it in any way I can.

What part of the world are you from? Marmite....UK?