Finding My Path: Reflections on Starting Point and Future Directions

Starting something new often feels like standing at the edge of a vast wilderness. I find myself asking: How did I get here? And where am I going? These questions have shaped my journey, especially as I balance my love for travel, wellness, and the outdoors with the realities of life and work. This post is a reflection on my beginnings and the path I’m carving forward, hoping it resonates with anyone looking to find their own direction.

The path in front of me

The Starting Point: "I don't want to work for 'The Man'"

My story begins with a move from Florida to Alaska back in 2022. My life had just escaped total destruction and was headed toward the great wide open. I had a full time job working remotely, so I had the blessing of being able to work from anywhere as long as I had internet access. As a contractor, work can become fairly volatile as the contract gets closer to it's end-date. Questions and concerns of what happens next or if I would still have a job with the company on a different contract if available beging to stir and bubble. It can be a roller coaster. In fact, I had made the decision to move to Alaska at the end of my last contract term, waiting to learn if I actually would have a job by the time I arrived in Alaska from my drive up from Florida. Thankfully, the last 4 years have been stable as I settled into my new Alaskan life. But what now?

Once I arrived in Alaska, I knew only two things; I have found my home and don't ever want to leave and I never want to work for 'The Man' again once my current contracting term ended. I had 5 years to come up with a plan for my future before I needed to make my own income. Personally, I was struggling through a lot of trauma both mental and physical, and I was not able to clearly plan my future initially. But the land I was living on was feeding my soul in quiet ways I could have never imagined. 10 acres tucked away just off the Glenn highway in the Matanuska Valley of Southcentral Alaska suddenly became available for purchase, and I jumped on the chance. The privacy and quiet, surrounded by massive mountains, moose and beautiful forests, chipped away at the hurt and pain I had been carrying with me for nearly 40 years. And after 3 years of hiking and exploring the natural world around me, I have been filled with so much love and peace, AND a clear direction.

Field of Dreams?

As a new entrepreneur, balancing work with self-care is a constant challenge. It is scary to look at my near future and wonder if my plan is going to work? If you have ever heard or seen the old Kevin Costner movie, Field of Dreams, you might know that invisible voice that pushes us saying, "If you build it, they will come."

I recently hit a pivotal point in my life where I absolutely needed to make decision and pick a direction and pursue that path to the best of my abilities. Since I was a child, I always had a heart of service. As an adult I happily served my country in the US Navy from 1999-2003, having served during the 9/11 attacks, I truly understood the need to reach back into our communities and lend a helping hand. Out of these factors was born, Lil Mt Joy, A boutique and intentional retreat space for all those seeking the peace, joy, and personal growth this land has to offer.

Looking Ahead: Where Am I Going?

The future feels both exciting and uncertain. I’m planning to expand my retreats, focusing on creating spaces that foster healing and growth. Alaska remains a special place in my heart, and I’m exploring ways to bring more people there to experience its unique beauty and tranquility. I also want to deepen my connection with the community, sharing these experiences can inspire others to find their own paths.

Embracing the Journey

Finding my path has been about embracing uncertainty and trusting the process. From vacations that sparked curiosity to retreats that nurtured wellness, every step has brought me closer to understanding who I am and where I want to go.

If you’re standing at your own starting point, remember that the journey is as important as the destination. Take time to explore, reflect, and move forward with intention.

Lil Mt Joy - Alaska