unfiltered thoughts

Imagining if I had chosen to go on exchange somewhere else — or if I decided not to go on exchange…

I hate saying “life changing experience” because I feel like describing exchange this way to someone who hasn’t been on exchange is bullshit — what does it even mean? It sets up the expectation that some miracle will just happen and you’ll come back a different person.

No. You have to work at it. Every single day. You have to make the decision to step outside your comfort zone, to do something different, to push yourself. Of course, shit will happen that will change you — but please don’t just expect exchange to work miracles if you’re not willing to work on yourself.

I’m tired of telling people “you should go on exchange” because external encouragement will only go so far, internal motivation will bring you much further.

So, go on exchange if you want to learn more about yourself, about other cultures. Go on exchange if you feel that there’s something more in life that you want to fulfil. Go on exchange if you are passionate about this lovely place we live called Earth. Don’t be afraid to do something wildly different because I promise that this is how you will learn.

Much love.

More unfiltered thoughts here.