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For the time being I am enjoying my chance to enjoy civilian life off the road. If I combined all the months that I have lived out of a van or tour bus it would amount to twelve solid years. That would be twelve years of driving or flying an average of 100 to 400 miles per day and sleeping in a different city every night. It was a very unique lifestyle that I adapted to and even enjoyed with it's surreal pace. It's also a lifestyle that can take a toll on the body and relationships with the people that you are constantly leaving behind.

Natalie Merchant#58

HealthLifestyleRelationshipsTravel

About this quote

What does it mean?
The speaker reflects on a long period of touring life, noting its unique pace and toll on health and relationships.
In plain terms
Touring for twelve years was a unique lifestyle that was enjoyable but hard on the body and friends.
What can you take from it?
Enjoy the moment but recognize the cost of a nomadic lifestyle on health and connections.

Where it applies

  • artists on tour
  • travelers
  • people considering nomadic work

Putting it to work

  • evaluate work-life balance
  • maintain relationships while traveling

Questions to consider

  • What lifestyle are you willing to sacrifice for your work?
  • How do you maintain relationships when you move frequently?

Another view

The quote implies touring is unsustainable long-term without cost.

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