I’ve been avoiding writing this post for over a week now. But it’s time to get brave.\
I’ve done brave things before. It’ll be ok.
Let’s go back to 2022. I was unhappy in my job, my relationship and the way I was showing up in life. I’d already learnt twice over the cruel lesson that death could take us at a moment’s notice, so I decided it was finally time to stop getting consumed by the ‘shoulds’, the judgement of others, and the fear of failure.
I quit my job, went all in on my business, launched a podcast (after 10years of not biting the bullet!) and ended my long term relationship. Two weeks later, I moved into my van – a dream I had had for almost a decade, yet had never followed through on.
It’s been a wild ride.
I’ve had the wildest highs, and some of my most all-consuming lows. I’ve felt like giving up, questioned my life choices, convinced myself that I’m worthless and have got caught up in multiple shame spirals. But I’ve also worked with amazing clients, seen beautiful places, made new friends (and maybe an enemy along the way 😳😅) AND have gone all in on my podcast.
I am incredibly proud of the strength, grit and determination I have shown in the last 18 months. The personal growth I have experienced is exhilarating.
Living full-time in my self-converted van with Tilly has been my way of embracing freedom, chasing adventure, and proving that a simpler, more intentional life is possible.
But, let me get to the point. To the scary part that I have been avoiding typing.
I am at a difficult crossroads on my journey.
The electrical system that powers my adventures has karked it. This electrical system is what allows me to run my podcast, my business and my day-to-day life off grid. Without my electrical system, my van can’t function as a home, workspace, or base for exploration.
After dropping $10k to fix my van when it broke down a few months ago, and now my electrical system giving up, I feel like life is testing me.
“Do you REALLY want this?” life is screaming at me.
“ARE YOU SURE?” it persists.
“YOU ARE WASTING YOUR LIFE FOLLOWING A FRIVOLOUS DREAM!” It spits in my face.
I bow my head in shame. I cry, feel sorry for myself, begin to lose hope.
But then a little voice whispers in my ear, “You can do this”.
“You chose this lifestyle for a reason.” it reassures me.
“You have never been happier or felt more fulfilled” it reminds me.
But then my mind goes to my dead Mum and Dad. What would they think of my life choices over the past couple of years? Would they approve? Would they be proud of me? Perhaps they would be disappointed in me, and wish that I take a more traditional, secure and safe path?
“Ha, yeah right!” I exclaim in a moment of clarity.
They may have had their conservative moments, but deep down they were as rebellious as it comes. They were such rule breakers. They fought fiercely for the life they wanted, and to provide the best possible life for me and Bianca. Their love was unconditional.
I lift my head, wipe away my tears, pull up my big girl panties and start taking action. Just like Ma and Pa taught me.
The fact is that I can’t afford to replace my electrical system right now. This means that for the foreseeable future I can’t be off-grid. I am instead stuck in a caravan park. It could be worse, but this isn’t where I want to be. I chose van life so I could be in nature, away from the hustle and bustle and living off grid.
I cut costs on my electrical system last time, and it has now backfired. I won’t make that mistake again. This means that it will cost ~$5k for a mid-range system or ~$10k for a high quality one.
So here’s how I’m taking action:
I’m approaching solar and electrical companies to see if they would consider a sponsorship or some kind of value trade (no luck yet, but I haven’t given up).
I have madly been apply for work to bring in consistent income and save money.
I have created a crowdfunding page to raise money.
I have already experienced such kindness from strangers on the internet who have been inspired by my story. They have generously donated their money, shared their advice and proclaimed their belief in me. Who knew TikTok could be such a beautiful and supportive community?
But now I’m asking for your support.
If my story or podcast has ever inspired you, made you pause and reflect on your life choices, or inspired you to take action, would you consider donating a dollar or two to help me replace my electrical system?
I would be ever so grateful.
Here’s a link to my crowdfunding page where you can donate: thepursuitoffreedom.com.au/help
Either way, I am so glad that you have been part of my crazy, beautiful, heartbreaking and invigorating life.
Here’s to living life on our terms,
Love Rosie and Tilly 🐾