From Barefoot Beginnings to a World of Adventure: Why Your Biggest Challenges are Your Best Assets

G’day everyone! If you’ve been following my journey, you know I’m not one for a quiet life sitting behind a desk in a 9-5 humdrum. Between co-founding Nomad Stays, solo motorcycling across three continents, and learning to fly (both hot air balloons and light sport planes!), I’ve had my fair share of “bum-clenching” moments, the crazy world of adventures that make you who you are today.

But here’s a secret: those moments—the ones where your heart is in your throat and you’re wondering why on earth you said “yes”—are exactly where the magic happens. Success isn’t about having a smooth run; it’s about having the grit to keep going when the tyre goes flat on the taxiway (literally!).

The Power of the “Proof Point”

One of my favorite strategies for building resilience is what I call the Proof Point.

When I was nervous about starting a global tech startup in a new country, I looked back at my solo motorbike ride from San Jose to New York. I told myself: “If I can ride across America solo, I can certainly handle a French visa application.” Every time you do something scary—whether it’s moving to a new country like I did with Hong Kong or Saudi Arabia, or finally hitting ‘send’ on a big proposal—you’re building a library of evidence that you are capable.

3 Strategies for Agility and Grit

Life as a digital nomad (or an entrepreneur) is unpredictable. To stay upright, you need to be “bendy.” Here’s how I stay agile:

1. The “I Am” Formula

I use this daily to stop procrastination and keep my momentum:

I (Intention): What is my positive intention today? (e.g., “I will be kind to myself” or “I will finish this project.”)
A (Action): What specific action will get me closer to that goal? What action am I avoiding that is stopping momentum?
m (Momentum): Am I moving forward? If not, why?

2. Just Say “Yes” (and Figure it Out Later)

Most people say no because they’re afraid of failing. I say yes because I’m curious. Whether it was becoming a flight attendant for royalty or moving to France to launch Nomad Stays during a global pandemic, saying “yes” opened doors I didn’t even know existed. Failure isn’t the end; it’s just a data point.

3. Ground Yourself (Literally)

When the 14-hour workdays get too much, I kick off my shoes. I’m a huge believer in “Business in Barefeet.” Getting your feet on the earth and connecting with nature—or just taking the dog for a walk—is the best way to reset your nervous system.

Why Agility is Your Superpower

In the startup world, things change every hour. Systems that worked yesterday might break today. Being “tough and flexible” means you don’t snap when the wind blows; you bend and adapt.

Remember, adventure is worthwhile because it builds personal, physical, and spiritual courage. So, what’s the “scary thing” you’re going to do today?

Don’t wait for the perfect moment—it doesn’t exist. Just start, stay curious, and keep those feet on the ground (even if you’re flying a plane!).

Ready to swap the humdrum for adventure? Let’s get moving!

Quick Tips for Your Resilience Toolkit:

Breathe: When things get stressful, focus on your breath. It’s the simplest way to regain control.
Find Your Community: Surround yourself with people who are doing what you’re passionate about.
Be of Service: Always ask, “How can I help?” When you focus on giving, the universe has a funny way of making sure you receive exactly what you need. Join me over in our communities.

Thanks to Her Expat Life for the interview with Linda A. McCall