The Biggest Adventure Ahead

I find myself pondering: How does one best plan such a monumental life change? Is it possible to balance careful planning with the spontaneity of an adventure?

The Biggest Adventure Ahead
Time to pack some bags

A little while ago, I delved into how weekend slumps should be transformed into opportunities to work on "Someday" projects. On my list, some ideas were serious, others less serious. Now, one of these projects has just leapt off the index card and into reality - I'm moving to Switzerland! Time to learn yodeling, and maybe, just maybe, some alpine skiing (age permitting).

Image of an index card with my "Someday I will do X" ideas
Where it all started

To plan or to not to plan

Relocating introduces logistical challenges. Despite my New Year's resolution to embrace spontaneity and plan less, this move seems to demand meticulous planning. Faced with the exciting yet daunting prospect of starting a new life abroad, I find myself pondering: How does one best plan such a monumental life change? Is it possible to balance careful planning with the spontaneity of an adventure?

Ironically, Swiss bureaucracy isn’t fond of overly detailed plans. Many steps, like securing a residency permit, an apartment, and a bank account, can’t fully be tackled until you’re in the country—they seem to prefer doing things face-to-face. It feels a bit like how Columbus might have felt setting sail for America.

Circling back to my approach to life and planning (attached below)—I’m wondering what’s the worst that can happen, and can I handle it? My main concern is securing an apartment in a competitive market. Thankfully, I’ve arranged temporary housing through City Pop, which, while a bit pricey, offers a flexible, hurdle-free start (this ad is not sponsored by City Pop, unfortunately). I can probably extend the rental if necessary. So, is there anything to really worry about? I doubt it. This adventure is certainly worth doing.

Image of a notebook page describing how to plan things
Reminder of my new approach to life

As I pack my bags for Switzerland, I'm reminded that the biggest adventures in life require a blend of careful planning and the courage to leap into the unknown. How do you handle life's big changes? Do you plan every detail or do you prefer to improvise and adapt as you go? Share your stories and strategies with me as I embark on this exciting new chapter.