sundaynightsky
New Member
- Time of past OR future Camino
- Camino Frances (2017)... maybe?
For 2024 Pilgrims: €50,- donation = 1 year with no ads on the forum + 90% off any 2024 Guide. More here. (Discount code sent to you by Private Message after your donation) |
---|
This makes sense to me, given your uncertainty.Sublet your flat for a month and come back. Then you have the Camino but also a safety net. Your friends and family will think you're less mad, too.
As a conclusion, this doesn't make sense. First, you won't be any worse off that you are now. Most likely you will have gained some really good insight, that will help you with your next decisions. And, you know what? The Camino is not the answer. Do not expect the Camino to make everything clear, so that you don't have to struggle with continual life decisions like everyone else.I worry that if I keep my flat/job, then everything in my life will be how it is now, and I will be the same too. I want to be different and I want my life to be different. But what if the Camino isn't the answer? I could end up with nothing...
Hello,Hello,
I have been dreaming about the Camino for a long time, but I have been having an argument with myself (the old 'head vs heart' debate) about whether/how I should do it. Any advice for me/thoughts on the Camino/comments about your own situation will be SO gratefully received!
So, my head is practical, scared of everything, does only what other people want - it currently rules my life. My heart is more spiritual, curious and passionate - it currently has no say in my life.
My heart says: quit everything (your flat, your job), walk the Camino, have some time to think, relish every moment without restriction, be in the moment, be honest with yourself, meet people, enjoy yourself, work everything else out later - you will be able to make it work.
My head says: you have a job and a flat, don't give this up (even if you're not that happy in said job or flat). Walk a bit of the Camino (if you must) but keep your job open. Sublet your flat for a month and come back. Then you have the Camino but also a safety net. Your friends and family will think you're less mad, too.
I worry that if I keep my flat/job, then everything in my life will be how it is now, and I will be the same too. I want to be different and I want my life to be different. But what if the Camino isn't the answer? I could end up with nothing...
Please can you give me some advice on how I can make this decision? Is quitting everything a very stupid idea? What if I walk the Camino and hate it? How did you feel about walking the Camino?
Yours anxiously,
Sundaynightsky
So much good advice given to you regarding your dilemmaHello,
I have been dreaming about the Camino for a long time, but I have been having an argument with myself (the old 'head vs heart' debate) about whether/how I should do it. Any advice for me/thoughts on the Camino/comments about your own situation will be SO gratefully received!
So, my head is practical, scared of everything, does only what other people want - it currently rules my life. My heart is more spiritual, curious and passionate - it currently has no say in my life.
My heart says: quit everything (your flat, your job), walk the Camino, have some time to think, relish every moment without restriction, be in the moment, be honest with yourself, meet people, enjoy yourself, work everything else out later - you will be able to make it work.
My head says: you have a job and a flat, don't give this up (even if you're not that happy in said job or flat). Walk a bit of the Camino (if you must) but keep your job open. Sublet your flat for a month and come back. Then you have the Camino but also a safety net. Your friends and family will think you're less mad, too.
I worry that if I keep my flat/job, then everything in my life will be how it is now, and I will be the same too. I want to be different and I want my life to be different. But what if the Camino isn't the answer? I could end up with nothing...
Please can you give me some advice on how I can make this decision? Is quitting everything a very stupid idea? What if I walk the Camino and hate it? How did you feel about walking the Camino?
Yours anxiously,
Sundaynightsky
Hello,
I have been dreaming about the Camino for a long time, but I have been having an argument with myself (the old 'head vs heart' debate) about whether/how I should do it. Any advice for me/thoughts on the Camino/comments about your own situation will be SO gratefully received!
So, my head is practical, scared of everything, does only what other people want - it currently rules my life. My heart is more spiritual, curious and passionate - it currently has no say in my life.
My heart says: quit everything (your flat, your job), walk the Camino, have some time to think, relish every moment without restriction, be in the moment, be honest with yourself, meet people, enjoy yourself, work everything else out later - you will be able to make it work.
My head says: you have a job and a flat, don't give this up (even if you're not that happy in said job or flat). Walk a bit of the Camino (if you must) but keep your job open. Sublet your flat for a month and come back. Then you have the Camino but also a safety net. Your friends and family will think you're less mad, too.
I worry that if I keep my flat/job, then everything in my life will be how it is now, and I will be the same too. I want to be different and I want my life to be different. But what if the Camino isn't the answer? I could end up with nothing...
Please can you give me some advice on how I can make this decision? Is quitting everything a very stupid idea? What if I walk the Camino and hate it? How did you feel about walking the Camino?
Yours anxiously,
Sundaynightsky
Hello,
I have been dreaming about the Camino for a long time, but I have been having an argument with myself (the old 'head vs heart' debate) about whether/how I should do it. Any advice for me/thoughts on the Camino/comments about your own situation will be SO gratefully received!
So, my head is practical, scared of everything, does only what other people want - it currently rules my life. My heart is more spiritual, curious and passionate - it currently has no say in my life.
My heart says: quit everything (your flat, your job), walk the Camino, have some time to think, relish every moment without restriction, be in the moment, be honest with yourself, meet people, enjoy yourself, work everything else out later - you will be able to make it work.
My head says: you have a job and a flat, don't give this up (even if you're not that happy in said job or flat). Walk a bit of the Camino (if you must) but keep your job open. Sublet your flat for a month and come back. Then you have the Camino but also a safety net. Your friends and family will think you're less mad, too.
I worry that if I keep my flat/job, then everything in my life will be how it is now, and I will be the same too. I want to be different and I want my life to be different. But what if the Camino isn't the answer? I could end up with nothing...
Please can you give me some advice on how I can make this decision? Is quitting everything a very stupid idea? What if I walk the Camino and hate it? How did you feel about walking the Camino?
Yours anxiously,
Sundaynightsky
Hello,
I have been dreaming about the Camino for a long time, but I have been having an argument with myself (the old 'head vs heart' debate) about whether/how I should do it. Any advice for me/thoughts on the Camino/comments about your own situation will be SO gratefully received!
So, my head is practical, scared of everything, does only what other people want - it currently rules my life. My heart is more spiritual, curious and passionate - it currently has no say in my life.
My heart says: quit everything (your flat, your job), walk the Camino, have some time to think, relish every moment without restriction, be in the moment, be honest with yourself, meet people, enjoy yourself, work everything else out later - you will be able to make it work.
My head says: you have a job and a flat, don't give this up (even if you're not that happy in said job or flat). Walk a bit of the Camino (if you must) but keep your job open. Sublet your flat for a month and come back. Then you have the Camino but also a safety net. Your friends and family will think you're less mad, too.
I worry that if I keep my flat/job, then everything in my life will be how it is now, and I will be the same too. I want to be different and I want my life to be different. But what if the Camino isn't the answer? I could end up with nothing...
Please can you give me some advice on how I can make this decision? Is quitting everything a very stupid idea? What if I walk the Camino and hate it? How did you feel about walking the Camino?
Yours anxiously,
Sundaynightsky
Goodness, you do have a problem!You are saying "I am so worried that I will change (or not change) if I do some (or all, or none) of the Camino, or that I will either not do anything or I will be dramatic and toss everything away!"
Where are you in your life? Are you an 18-year-old recently out of school, or are you a 60-year-old considering retirement?
View attachment 31213 View attachment 31214
So much good advice given to you regarding your dilemma
Reminds me of a book I read recently about the same thing
This guy, despite his condition wondered much the same as yourself
Will try my best to upload the info best wishes Annette View attachment 31213View attachment 31214
Welcome Sundaynightsky. There is an old saying "Trust in Allah but tie your camel". Keep your flat and job and walk your Camino, then, if you wish, make your decision.
Hello,
I have been dreaming about the Camino for a long time, but I have been having an argument with myself (the old 'head vs heart' debate) about whether/how I should do it. Any advice for me/thoughts on the Camino/comments about your own situation will be SO gratefully received!
So, my head is practical, scared of everything, does only what other people want - it currently rules my life. My heart is more spiritual, curious and passionate - it currently has no say in my life.
My heart says: quit everything (your flat, your job), walk the Camino, have some time to think, relish every moment without restriction, be in the moment, be honest with yourself, meet people, enjoy yourself, work everything else out later - you will be able to make it work.
My head says: you have a job and a flat, don't give this up (even if you're not that happy in said job or flat). Walk a bit of the Camino (if you must) but keep your job open. Sublet your flat for a month and come back. Then you have the Camino but also a safety net. Your friends and family will think you're less mad, too.
I worry that if I keep my flat/job, then everything in my life will be how it is now, and I will be the same too. I want to be different and I want my life to be different. But what if the Camino isn't the answer? I could end up with nothing...
Please can you give me some advice on how I can make this decision? Is quitting everything a very stupid idea? What if I walk the Camino and hate it? How did you feel about walking the Camino?
Yours anxiously,
Sundaynightsky
I don't need to think about everything all at once.
Hello,
I have been dreaming about the Camino for a long time, but I have been having an argument with myself (the old 'head vs heart' debate) about whether/how I should do it. Any advice for me/thoughts on the Camino/comments about your own situation will be SO gratefully received!
So, my head is practical, scared of everything, does only what other people want - it currently rules my life. My heart is more spiritual, curious and passionate - it currently has no say in my life.
My heart says: quit everything (your flat, your job), walk the Camino, have some time to think, relish every moment without restriction, be in the moment, be honest with yourself, meet people, enjoy yourself, work everything else out later - you will be able to make it work.
My head says: you have a job and a flat, don't give this up (even if you're not that happy in said job or flat). Walk a bit of the Camino (if you must) but keep your job open. Sublet your flat for a month and come back. Then you have the Camino but also a safety net. Your friends and family will think you're less mad, too.
I worry that if I keep my flat/job, then everything in my life will be how it is now, and I will be the same too. I want to be different and I want my life to be different. But what if the Camino isn't the answer? I could end up with nothing...
Please can you give me some advice on how I can make this decision? Is quitting everything a very stupid idea? What if I walk the Camino and hate it? How did you feel about walking the Camino?
Yours anxiously,
Sundaynightsky
I worry that if I keep my flat/job, then everything in my life will be how it is now, and I will be the same too. I want to be different and I want my life to be different. But what if the Camino isn't the answer? I could end up with nothing...
Hi sundaynightsky, only you can make the decision. However, more often there are regrets of not doing something vs doing something. It is good from time to time to step out of our comfort zone. I too am not too happy in my current job and wanted to take extended leave from work but it is a secure job and money is always a road block. Despite all that, I have decided to take the year off this year. I am selling stuff that I am not using - uncluttering space = uncluttering mind and will be using some of my retirement savings - don't want to wait till then as I want the time off now and who knows what will happen when I am retired in 10 years or so. My challenge will be to learn to live on a strict budget that I am not accustom to and be a minimalist. As I am not a frugal person, this will be quite a challenge. I thought doing the Camino at the beginning of my year off was a good fit and give time to reflect and just be. My Camino starts late April. I am now working out the details to sublet my flat because the rental market is insane in Victoria, BC and do not wish to have to look for a place when I come back. That said, we have one life and we shall live it. We don't know what tomorrow will bring. A flat is replaceable, another job can be found - it may be difficult but not impossible. I say go for it and if you hate it so much stop, go back or do something else. You are in charge. I can see the Camino it is not for everybody but I do think a looking at a different scenery, the exercise alone and the sense of accomplishment at the end is a reward and perhaps give you the strength you need for the next step in your life. Good luck and hope to see you on the Camino!Hello,
I have been dreaming about the Camino for a long time, but I have been having an argument with myself (the old 'head vs heart' debate) about whether/how I should do it. Any advice for me/thoughts on the Camino/comments about your own situation will be SO gratefully received!
So, my head is practical, scared of everything, does only what other people want - it currently rules my life. My heart is more spiritual, curious and passionate - it currently has no say in my life.
My heart says: quit everything (your flat, your job), walk the Camino, have some time to think, relish every moment without restriction, be in the moment, be honest with yourself, meet people, enjoy yourself, work everything else out later - you will be able to make it work.
My head says: you have a job and a flat, don't give this up (even if you're not that happy in said job or flat). Walk a bit of the Camino (if you must) but keep your job open. Sublet your flat for a month and come back. Then you have the Camino but also a safety net. Your friends and family will think you're less mad, too.
I worry that if I keep my flat/job, then everything in my life will be how it is now, and I will be the same too. I want to be different and I want my life to be different. But what if the Camino isn't the answer? I could end up with nothing...
Please can you give me some advice on how I can make this decision? Is quitting everything a very stupid idea? What if I walk the Camino and hate it? How did you feel about walking the Camino?
Yours anxiously,
Sundaynightsky
Here os the question: is one's experience of Caminoing a frugal one, or the product of having a well enough paying job in order to pay for Caminoing, and giving one the illusion of being free from such social constraints?As I am not a frugal person, this will be quite a challenge. I thought doing the Camino at the beginning of my year off was a good fit and give time to reflect and just be.
I would suggest that you check out the Don't Stop Walking video series on YouTube by Andrew Suzuki. If they appeal to you, then take a leap of faith, and do it.
This may not be the reply that you are looking for, but I truly believe that each peregrino must make their own decision. Before you make the choice, also watch the Youtube video titled the way of saint james not a path of roses. If you watch all those videos, and are still interested, I don't think you will be disappointed.
She has already said she's in her 30s and has been working an office job for 10 years.sundaynightsky, perhaps if you gave us just a bit more info, but only if you are comfortable with that. What is your age group? We're of all ages on this forum, as is the Camino itself - ageless. What part of the world do you come from? many can help with with travel options and route ideas.....
Whoops, missed it.....thanks.She has already said she's in her 30s and has been working an office job for 10 years.
What C Clearly said.
You are putting a whole lot of presure on what in the end is a long distance walk. While it can make you look at things differently, it is just a long distance walk. It is often repeated on this Forum that one should not expect a second Camino being like the first one, or else one risks being disapointed. And I assume that those who did not "see the light" after a first Camino are not on the Forum musing about a second.
My fear is that you may be bitterly disappointed if all in your life was not magically sorted after you finish walking. That would be very sad.
Please remember that while the idea that you will be free of social consteaints on the Camino, that you will be able your true self for once in your life, reality is that you will be able to walk the Camino because you have a job, because of your studies or other training you got to do your job. No job, no boss = no vino tinto and pilgrim menu shared with similar minded people. Mind you, there are a handful of people who do live on the Camino, but I don't think it would take you very long to realise this is not something you would want happening to you.
And also, you don't have to take 6 weeks off to walk the who Frances. When I first walked I did so from SJPP to Burgos, 3 weeks in total, including trans-Atlantic flights, and travel to and from start and end points of my walk. And that was no doubt the "magical" Camino for me, the one novels are written about, the one that heals and makes one see the light. So if you have 2 weeks off, 3 weeks off, take that.
The return home, you should know, is not always easy: you've seen the light, you think you know who you are when life's pressures are gone, and people at home "just don't get it!". All you want to do is talk about your experience; after one talk they are done hearong about it, but you are not.
Perhaps a few "Camino lessons" will remain with you, even after you join the rat race again. Or maybe only one will. And perhaps only when you make a concious effort. And that's ok.
If the Camino was the solution to all our mal-être, there would be many more people than the already 270 000+ people walking the Camino (and those are only those who went to get a Compostela), and shrinks and pharmaceutical firms would be bankrupt.
Breath, keep your job, keep your flat, go walk what ever it is you can without binning it all.
IMHO, the Camino, if you're doing it as a pilgrimage, is a whole LOT more than a long-distance walk.
Pilgrims walk away from what was, even if it means "burning their bridges." They throw their whole life into this little month-long hike, trusting in the steps of the millions who went before them, trusting in the adage: You get out of it what you put into it.
If you don't buy the ticket, you'll never win the prize. If you don't risk, you don't achieve. You can walk your lovely, inspiring long-distance hike and nothing whatsoever will change inside you, because you already have your life all safely arranged and orderly, and you're not about to risk any of that!
I don't intend to criticize the purity of anyone's intentions.
I'm just saying, this is one of the criteria that makes a pilgrim a pilgrim. He's not on a walking holiday. He's out to change his world.
And if he doesn't give up, the camino will NOT disappoint him.
It's pretty obvious it's possible to micro-plan the Camino down to the last minuscule detail and many people seem determined to do this and drown in the minutiae, maybe as an extension of their already micro-managed lives, maybe they can't let go. I suspect there are a lot of planning junkies and kit geeks who bathe in the pre-Camino ritual as much as they can. Don't succumb to it...
You and Rebekah have contributed two of the wisest posts I have ever seen on this forum.This is by far the best reply to the OP's question so far and bang on point.
You DO burn your bridges, you DO cut your ties and you DO accept the direction life takes once you start. Damn straight too, it's not a flipping luxury walking holiday it's a pilgrimage that is supposed to be tough, by being tough it exerts a psychological effect by breaking you down and then allowing you to rebuild over the course of the walk- much like the armed forces do when they take in recruits and subject them to a boot camp/basic training, although I'm not suggesting it's in any way as tough and painful as that. I suspect that plenty of people could prove that the act of doing the Camino is actually a combination of auto Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Psycho-Physical Therapy as well as being a 'really long walk'.
There are so many analogies it's difficult to choose one....walking on hot coals- unless you're doing it in bare feet what's the point? Walking a tightrope- if the rope is only a foot off the ground or there's a net underneath then it's just a balancing exercise....Evel Knievel doing his motorcycle jumps- can you imagine if he had been wearing a safety harness with a wire attached to a helicopter just in case?
To try and retain the sense of adventure and keep the element of surprise, I'm actually trying to avoid spending too much time on this forum beside gleaning basic essential travel info/guidance, for which I'm very grateful btw- the answers to my marmalade question are a life saver
It's pretty obvious it's possible to micro-plan the Camino down to the last minuscule detail and many people seem determined to do this and drown in the minutiae, maybe as an extension of their already micro-managed lives, maybe they can't let go. I suspect there are a lot of planning junkies and kit geeks who bathe in the pre-Camino ritual as much as they can. Don't succumb to it, do just enough to get you to Bayonne or StJean, or wherever you're going to start from and then let life, the Camino or even the spirit of St Jimmy guide you (if you believe in that kind of thing).
Oh my poor man, you have just unleashed the "it's my Camino" heards. Lots of discussions about "what makes a pilgrimage", "who is a real pilgrim", "are you a pilgrim if you usr mochileros or taxis/bus". I tried once, or twiceYou DO burn your bridges, you DO cut your ties and you DO accept the direction life takes once you start. Damn straight too, it's not a flipping luxury walking holiday it's a pilgrimage that is supposed to be tough, by being tough it exerts a psychological effect by breaking you down and then allowing you to rebuild over the course of the walk- much like the armed forces do when they take in recruits and subject them to a boot camp/basic training, although I'm not suggesting it's in any way as tough and painful as that.
Oh my poor man, you have just unleashed the "it's my Camino" heards. Lots of discussions about "what makes a pilgrimage", "who is a real pilgrim", "are you a pilgrim if you usr mochileros or taxis/bus". I tried once, or twice, that the notion of scacrifice is part of the Camino (walking, with the discomfort that brings) but oh the wrath from our comfort walking friends! Best of luck to you!
"The appearance of motor vehicles and, in this century, the popularisation of tourism, represented somewhat of a crisis for pilgrimage: it was feared that the effort and sacrifice in the expiation of sins embraced in the pilgrimage on foot would be exchanged by a pleasant and enjoyable activity for the holidays. Such was the case that authorities in other sanctuaries began to issue visiting certificates imitating the “Compostela”. The Chapter of the Metropolitan Church of Santiago continued to issue the certificate and in modern times the award of the “Compostela” is limited to those who come to the tomb of the Apostle for religious and/or spiritual reasons, and following the routes of the Way of St. James on foot, by bicycle or on horseback."Oh my poor man, you have just unleashed the "it's my Camino" heards. Lots of discussions about "what makes a pilgrimage", "who is a real pilgrim", "are you a pilgrim if you usr mochileros or taxis/bus". I tried once, or twice, that the notion of scacrifice is part of the Camino (walking, with the discomfort that brings) but oh the wrath from our comfort walking friends! Best of luck to you!
I know, I know... I quoted that as well: effort and sacrifice."The appearance of motor vehicles and, in this century, the popularisation of tourism, represented somewhat of a crisis for pilgrimage: it was feared that the effort and sacrifice in the expiation of sins embraced in the pilgrimage on foot would be exchanged by a pleasant and enjoyable activity for the holidays. Such was the case that authorities in other sanctuaries began to issue visiting certificates imitating the “Compostela”. The Chapter of the Metropolitan Church of Santiago continued to issue the certificate and in modern times the award of the “Compostela” is limited to those who come to the tomb of the Apostle for religious and/or spiritual reasons, and following the routes of the Way of St. James on foot, by bicycle or on horseback."
https://oficinadelperegrino.com/en/pilgrimage/the-compostela/
I never met anyone who hated the camino but your quandary is so very life changing, only you can decide. My son lost his job so walked the camino. He told me about it so I walked it but neither of us had anything to give up and unlike many others I did not have years to think about it, just a few months until I got up and went. I have only met one young man who gave up everything and another that my son knows who did the same. The guy I knew walked to Santiago then back to France then to Luxembourg and the last I heard he was in Vienna at Christmas and I know his eventual goal is or was Rome. My sons friend set off from Belfast on his bicycle and pedalled to St Jean then walked to Santiago. Not sure where he is now but his eventual goal is Greece. Both these people set off with the bare minimum of money and are to the best of my knowledge working odd jobs as and when they need funds. Personally, I think they are both 'nuts' but they are young and adventurous. Would I advise my son to go for it, and I know he probably would. Not a chance. The camino has been there a very long time and will be there as long as this world exists. Another young friend of mine goes out every year and walks different sections for a couple of weeks and not necessarily in any kind of consecutive order. Maybe you should try that first before taking the monumental decision that is currently troubling your mind. By the way, there is nothing different about wanting to be different. We all are and on the camino you will meet so many different people that you will come to realise you are already different. Of course when you think about how many people walk each year then multiply that by say an average age span of 80 and compare that to the population of somewhere like Britain, you will realise that as the vast majority will never do what you have done, you are different, you are unique and can indulge yourself in a little pride. So do a few weeks first then think about it againHello,
I have been dreaming about the Camino for a long time, but I have been having an argument with myself (the old 'head vs heart' debate) about whether/how I should do it. Any advice for me/thoughts on the Camino/comments about your own situation will be SO gratefully received!
So, my head is practical, scared of everything, does only what other people want - it currently rules my life. My heart is more spiritual, curious and passionate - it currently has no say in my life.
My heart says: quit everything (your flat, your job), walk the Camino, have some time to think, relish every moment without restriction, be in the moment, be honest with yourself, meet people, enjoy yourself, work everything else out later - you will be able to make it work.
My head says: you have a job and a flat, don't give this up (even if you're not that happy in said job or flat). Walk a bit of the Camino (if you must) but keep your job open. Sublet your flat for a month and come back. Then you have the Camino but also a safety net. Your friends and family will think you're less mad, too.
I worry that if I keep my flat/job, then everything in my life will be how it is now, and I will be the same too. I want to be different and I want my life to be different. But what if the Camino isn't the answer? I could end up with nothing...
Please can you give me some advice on how I can make this decision? Is quitting everything a very stupid idea? What if I walk the Camino and hate it? How did you feel about walking the Camino?
Yours anxiously,
Sundaynightsky
Dear Sunday night skyHello,
I have been dreaming about the Camino for a long time, but I have been having an argument with myself (the old 'head vs heart' debate) about whether/how I should do it. Any advice for me/thoughts on the Camino/comments about your own situation will be SO gratefully received!
So, my head is practical, scared of everything, does only what other people want - it currently rules my life. My heart is more spiritual, curious and passionate - it currently has no say in my life.
My heart says: quit everything (your flat, your job), walk the Camino, have some time to think, relish every moment without restriction, be in the moment, be honest with yourself, meet people, enjoy yourself, work everything else out later - you will be able to make it work.
My head says: you have a job and a flat, don't give this up (even if you're not that happy in said job or flat). Walk a bit of the Camino (if you must) but keep your job open. Sublet your flat for a month and come back. Then you have the Camino but also a safety net. Your friends and family will think you're less mad, too.
I worry that if I keep my flat/job, then everything in my life will be how it is now, and I will be the same too. I want to be different and I want my life to be different. But what if the Camino isn't the answer? I could end up with nothing...
Please can you give me some advice on how I can make this decision? Is quitting everything a very stupid idea? What if I walk the Camino and hate it? How did you feel about walking the Camino?
Yours anxiously,
Sundaynightsky
i don't think life is as long as we hope it will be and I say go for it and enjoy the journey. I'm 64 and plan to walk the Camino Francis next June. I don't want to be on my death bed saying" oh I should have done the Camino" Ain't life funny though>I could have written this myself, right now... And I have done the Camino. Loved it so much I've done it 3 times now, and my feeling after the last one was that my greatest mistake was coming back at all.
But is that true? I don't see anyway of knowing. I could quit my job and sell my flat, and go walking again. For a year, my heart tells me. I can see the route, glowing in my mind. Completely around Spain, for starters.
And then what? I have no idea. There are a few people who just keep walking, but they either have trust funds or are indigent poor. Life is long, and I believe we have a duty to plan for our own old age. If you're twenty, go for it. There are ways to survive.
Would anyone here go for it if they were fifty? (not being sarcastic, either)
C Clearly: You laid things out, well, very clearly! I walked the Camino Frances in 2016 because I had time to do it and the emotional & financial support of my husband, thus a safety net. That safety net gave me comfort. (For me, not having a safety net would have given me anxiety the entire time I was on the trail.) I'd suggest taking as much time off from your job as you can & walk as much of the Camino as possible in the allotted time. Return home to your safety net & decide if you want more of the Camino -- either to return & through hike it or to return on your holidays & pick up where you left off. Use the job you don't like to save money to make either happen.Goodness, you do have a problem!You are saying "I am so worried that I will change (or not change) if I do some (or all, or none) of the Camino, or that I will either not do anything or I will be dramatic and toss everything away!"
Where are you in your life? Are you an 18-year-old recently out of school, or are you a 60-year-old considering retirement?
This makes sense to me, given your uncertainty.
As a conclusion, this doesn't make sense. First, you won't be any worse off that you are now. Most likely you will have gained some really good insight, that will help you with your next decisions. And, you know what? The Camino is not the answer. Do not expect the Camino to make everything clear, so that you don't have to struggle with continual life decisions like everyone else.
However, the good news is that the Camino might teach you about the progress that you can make when you put one foot (metaphorical or physical) in front of the other, with specific goals in mind: Santiago at the end of the month, an albergue at the end of the day, 5 km more before your second breakfast today, and the tree at the top of the hill first!
A few weeks on the Camino would be a good start. It does not usually have to be "all or nothing"!
Hello,
I have been dreaming about the Camino for a long time, but I have been having an argument with myself (the old 'head vs heart' debate) about whether/how I should do it. Any advice for me/thoughts on the Camino/comments about your own situation will be SO gratefully received!
So, my head is practical, scared of everything, does only what other people want - it currently rules my life. My heart is more spiritual, curious and passionate - it currently has no say in my life.
My heart says: quit everything (your flat, your job), walk the Camino, have some time to think, relish every moment without restriction, be in the moment, be honest with yourself, meet people, enjoy yourself, work everything else out later - you will be able to make it work.
My head says: you have a job and a flat, don't give this up (even if you're not that happy in said job or flat). Walk a bit of the Camino (if you must) but keep your job open. Sublet your flat for a month and come back. Then you have the Camino but also a safety net. Your friends and family will think you're less mad, too.
I worry that if I keep my flat/job, then everything in my life will be how it is now, and I will be the same too. I want to be different and I want my life to be different. But what if the Camino isn't the answer? I could end up with nothing...
Please can you give me some advice on how I can make this decision? Is quitting everything a very stupid idea? What if I walk the Camino and hate it? How did you feel about walking the Camino?
Yours anxiously,
Sundaynightsky
Hello,
I have been dreaming about the Camino for a long time, but I have been having an argument with myself (the old 'head vs heart' debate) about whether/how I should do it. Any advice for me/thoughts on the Camino/comments about your own situation will be SO gratefully received!
So, my head is practical, scared of everything, does only what other people want - it currently rules my life. My heart is more spiritual, curious and passionate - it currently has no say in my life.
My heart says: quit everything (your flat, your job), walk the Camino, have some time to think, relish every moment without restriction, be in the moment, be honest with yourself, meet people, enjoy yourself, work everything else out later - you will be able to make it work.
My head says: you have a job and a flat, don't give this up (even if you're not that happy in said job or flat). Walk a bit of the Camino (if you must) but keep your job open. Sublet your flat for a month and come back. Then you have the Camino but also a safety net. Your friends and family will think you're less mad, too.
I worry that if I keep my flat/job, then everything in my life will be how it is now, and I will be the same too. I want to be different and I want my life to be different. But what if the Camino isn't the answer? I could end up with nothing...
Please can you give me some advice on how I can make this decision? Is quitting everything a very stupid idea? What if I walk the Camino and hate it? How did you feel about walking the Camino?
Yours anxiously,
Sundaynightsky
Don't burn your bridges. It is only 6 weeks, but you will be different whether you like it or not. Then you will come home and figure out what to do. You will have a place and job to come home to. That is more than some people have.Hello,
I have been dreaming about the Camino for a long time, but I have been having an argument with myself (the old 'head vs heart' debate) about whether/how I should do it. Any advice for me/thoughts on the Camino/comments about your own situation will be SO gratefully received!
So, my head is practical, scared of everything, does only what other people want - it currently rules my life. My heart is more spiritual, curious and passionate - it currently has no say in my life.
My heart says: quit everything (your flat, your job), walk the Camino, have some time to think, relish every moment without restriction, be in the moment, be honest with yourself, meet people, enjoy yourself, work everything else out later - you will be able to make it work.
My head says: you have a job and a flat, don't give this up (even if you're not that happy in said job or flat). Walk a bit of the Camino (if you must) but keep your job open. Sublet your flat for a month and come back. Then you have the Camino but also a safety net. Your friends and family will think you're less mad, too.
I worry that if I keep my flat/job, then everything in my life will be how it is now, and I will be the same too. I want to be different and I want my life to be different. But what if the Camino isn't the answer? I could end up with nothing...
Please can you give me some advice on how I can make this decision? Is quitting everything a very stupid idea? What if I walk the Camino and hate it? How did you feel about walking the Camino?
Yours anxiously,
Sundaynightsky
I second PurkyI once ended up with nothing, but it wasn't the worst that ever happened to me. I lost my house and all my possessions in a fire when I was in my mid twenties, just days after the relationship with my then-girlfriend had ended. I had the clothes on my back, that was it. It was all very depressing and I was scared shitless, pardon my French. This series of events though, led to a blissful year of travelling and working in Australia. One of the best things I ever decided to do.
I'm not going to tell you what to do. It is something you have to figure out for yourself. But it sounds to me like you already made a decision. "I want to be different and I want my life to be different." Maybe the Camino won't be the answer, but something else on the way will. If securing a safety net is an option, that is never a bad idea. Putting yourself out there is also never a bad idea, for that matter.
But never let fear rule your life. If you do, you will miss out and sell yourself short. So my advice would be: take a deep breath, plunge in and smile. And then breathe again. Whether it is a camino, a working holiday or whatever floats your boat. You will probably very soon find that your old fears have become mostly irrelevant and you will replace them with new ones. But at least you will be in charge, and you'll know the way out, if only for a moment.
The best of luck. And also what C Clearly said.
I love this quote, thank you for sharing it! I'll put it on a post-it note in my room[/
Sundaynightsky
Your young, you can achieve anything you want, you just got to want it bad enough..don't let negative experiences/people, fears or lack of confidence be the shackles that bind you to an unfulfilling existence. Sub letting your flat might be a good idea..and jobs come and go. Go and walk, and relish the breeze on your face and your new found freedom....take that leap of faith...
Rina I think you will find many solo women walking....Have a beautiful journey.Dear Sunday night sky
Just do it! Life is too short to allow your brain to overrule your heart and passion. I am hiking the Portuguese Coastal in May all by myself...I'm 66 and a woman...I go with my husbands blessings as he did the Camino from St Jean Pied de Port to Santiago 2 years ago on his own.
You don't need to quit your job or give up anything. Book as much time off as you can get and do if not all of it at least part of it. You will never regret taking the opportunity.
Hello,
I have been dreaming about the Camino for a long time, but I have been having an argument with myself (the old 'head vs heart' debate) about whether/how I should do it. Any advice for me/thoughts on the Camino/comments about your own situation will be SO gratefully received!
So, my head is practical, scared of everything, does only what other people want - it currently rules my life. My heart is more spiritual, curious and passionate - it currently has no say in my life.
My heart says: quit everything (your flat, your job), walk the Camino, have some time to think, relish every moment without restriction, be in the moment, be honest with yourself, meet people, enjoy yourself, work everything else out later - you will be able to make it work.
My head says: you have a job and a flat, don't give this up (even if you're not that happy in said job or flat). Walk a bit of the Camino (if you must) but keep your job open. Sublet your flat for a month and come back. Then you have the Camino but also a safety net. Your friends and family will think you're less mad, too.
I worry that if I keep my flat/job, then everything in my life will be how it is now, and I will be the same too. I want to be different and I want my life to be different. But what if the Camino isn't the answer? I could end up with nothing...
Please can you give me some advice on how I can make this decision? Is quitting everything a very stupid idea? What if I walk the Camino and hate it? How did you feel about walking the Camino?
Yours anxiously,
Sundaynightsky
Advice are there for you to read and in the end it's still your decision on what's right for you. You can be practical and spiritual at the same time. Don't put too much pressure on yourself. And there would be days when you question yourself why you are doing the pilgrim and only you can answer it. Good luck and Buen CaminoHello,
I have been dreaming about the Camino for a long time, but I have been having an argument with myself (the old 'head vs heart' debate) about whether/how I should do it. Any advice for me/thoughts on the Camino/comments about your own situation will be SO gratefully received!
So, my head is practical, scared of everything, does only what other people want - it currently rules my life. My heart is more spiritual, curious and passionate - it currently has no say in my life.
My heart says: quit everything (your flat, your job), walk the Camino, have some time to think, relish every moment without restriction, be in the moment, be honest with yourself, meet people, enjoy yourself, work everything else out later - you will be able to make it work.
My head says: you have a job and a flat, don't give this up (even if you're not that happy in said job or flat). Walk a bit of the Camino (if you must) but keep your job open. Sublet your flat for a month and come back. Then you have the Camino but also a safety net. Your friends and family will think you're less mad, too.
I worry that if I keep my flat/job, then everything in my life will be how it is now, and I will be the same too. I want to be different and I want my life to be different. But what if the Camino isn't the answer? I could end up with nothing...
Please can you give me some advice on how I can make this decision? Is quitting everything a very stupid idea? What if I walk the Camino and hate it? How did you feel about walking the Camino?
Yours anxiously,
Sundaynightsky
The pilgrims paused on the ancient stones
In the mountain gap
Behind them stretched the roadway they
had traveled.
Ahead, mist hid the track.
Unspoken the question hovered:
Why go on? Is life not short enough?
Why seek to pierce its mystery?
Why venture further on strange paths, risking all?
And you wrote: And… I will do another Camino. Soon.You may remember my 'anxious debate with myself' at the beginning of this year.
Well, I did end up going on a Camino - just a short one - and have FINALLY got round to writing up my experience of it.
Hi everyone,
You may remember my 'anxious debate with myself' at the beginning of this year.
Well, I did end up going on a Camino - just a short one - and have FINALLY got round to writing up my experience of it.
If any of you should be interested (tbh it's mainly to do with my mental health on the walk), please find it here:
https://healthkindnessandme.wordpress.com/walking-the-camino/
Thanks for all your responses and kindness, and apologies for not being more grateful at the time.
Thanks,
Sundaynightsky x
A very moving account of your journeyHi everyone,
You may remember my 'anxious debate with myself' at the beginning of this year.
Well, I did end up going on a Camino - just a short one - and have FINALLY got round to writing up my experience of it.
If any of you should be interested (tbh it's mainly to do with my mental health on the walk), please find it here:
https://healthkindnessandme.wordpress.com/walking-the-camino/
Thanks for all your responses and kindness, and apologies for not being more grateful at the time.
Thanks,
Sundaynightsky x
We use cookies and similar technologies for the following purposes:
Do you accept cookies and these technologies?
We use cookies and similar technologies for the following purposes:
Do you accept cookies and these technologies?