Preparing for a new way of life

Preparing for a new way of life requires change in thinking and action.  Over the past few weeks, I’ve started making some changes as I transition into my life as a backpacker.

Sleeping on a couch and living with less

Dan's couch in Nob HIll

Since January, my friend Seth moved into my room in my Nob Hill apartment to take my spot.  I’ve been living on the couch for about a month now.  Though I didn’t plan it this way, it’s great experience for Couchsurfing, which I intend to do as much as possible.  Though I no longer have the comfort of a nice bed to crawl into after a long day, the couch has provided me with a place to sleep.  Getting used to it was not as bad as I thought it would be.

When I returned to the apartment after the holidays, I brought a very limited wardrobe which didn’t even fill a mid-sized suitcase.  I just had a couple nice outfits, workout clothes, a pair of jeans, a couple t-shirts, and a jacket.  Living with less has simplified my choices in a positive way.  The next step is living with only a couple pairs of clothes and essentials for 14 months.  I’ll be posting my full packing list in a couple weeks.

Living with my pack

After trying on various Osprey, Gordon, and Deuter at REI, I settled on the Deuter ACT Lite 40+10.  I found it to be the most comfortable and most flexible.  I’ve been wearing this backpack EVERYWHERE for the past month, loading it with various weights (groceries, books, gym clothes).  It’s amusing to see the looks and comments while wearing a suit and backpacking pack.  I’m happy to say so far it’s comfortable, reliable and holds weight well.  I feel like I’m missing something if I walk out the door without my pack.

Saying goodbye

I’ve made amazing friends living in San Francisco the past 9 months.  While it’s exciting to be embarking on a new adventure, I will definitely miss my roommates, friends, and colleagues.  As I’m leaving and remembering my experience here, I know I will remember the people the most.  Being away from friends may be the most difficult change.

The best goodbyes are fun, and I could not ask for a more fun day than running through Golden Gate Park with 40 Runsplorers followed by a beach bon fire with smores and an epic football game followed by Sushi, karaoke, and dancing on Polk Street!

The next destination is Colorado on February 10th where I get to see my friends Drew, Brian, and Kelsey and ski on some of the best mountains in the world!

Have you made changes in order to prepare for a new job, home, or way of life?  I’d love to hear about your experiences – please leave a comment below.