Of course age is simply a number. However, as the number grows, as a general rule, more things become attached to the number. As we age, we become more complicated- even on the simplest, most biological level- our bodies and minds age, resulting in deterioration and need for care and attention. While we are young, the need to pay attention and care to such problems is less, as generally we young people are much healthier. The same idea can be applied to all areas of our life, like our social and professional lives.
As we age, we aquire attachments
These attachments can come in the form of
a job
a car
a house
a spouse
children
pets
bills
the need to take care of our aging parents
Essentially, it gets more difficult to travel as we age, as we have more and more to lose. At a young age, our lives are more resillient to change and mistakes, as the stakes are far fewer.
Not only are we less attached while we are young, but our minds are more open
Although travelling for a period of time in your late teens or twenties can postpone your education and career, travel can and likely will shape what you choose to do with the rest of your life.
When you travel, particularly in a foreign country with an unfamiliar culture, you become exposed to a whole new way of living and thinking. Not only that, but you are exposed to life paths and careers that you never would have known otherwise.
Through finding where we fit within a foreign space and culture, as well as interaction with other travellers from all around the world, you begin to understand yourself and your values on a much higher level.
I'm not trying to say that it's impossible, or invaluable to travel at an older age. I will say, however, that I have met a lot of people in their 30's and even 40's who've quit their job and taken off to see the world to better understand themselves, which is awesome. What I want to do, is start this journey and experience while I'm young.
What do I really have to lose?
C
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