Breaking Free from "Shoulds": How One Woman's Journey of Self-Discovery Redefines Success Through Travel and Storytelling
In a world that often dictates our life paths through societal expectations and predetermined milestones, Jen Peterkin's story is a powerful testament to the transformative power of breaking free from the "shoulds" and embracing a life of authentic self-discovery.
The Journey of Redefining Success
Jen's journey began with a pivotal moment many can relate to - a painful divorce that became a catalyst for profound personal transformation. In 2014, what seemed like a devastating life event became the launching pad for a remarkable journey of healing, growth, and unexpected adventure.
Like many young adults, Jen initially followed the traditional path: pursuing higher education, seeking a stable career, and planning for a conventional future. However, her experience taught her that life rarely follows a linear journey. After her divorce, she realized that the predetermined life plan she had been following didn't align with her true self.
The Power of Travel as Personal Education
What sets Jen's story apart is her radical approach to personal growth: travel. But this isn't just casual tourism - it's intentional, transformative exploration. By traveling to countries like Romania, Kenya, England, and Finland, Jen discovered something profound: travel is the most immersive form of education.
"The single best thing I have done for myself is travel," Jen shares. "It shattered the ceiling on my perspective and world view."
Her travel philosophy goes beyond collecting passport stamps. Each destination became an opportunity to understand human stories, challenge her preconceptions, and expand her understanding of the world. By prioritizing travel, she restructured her entire life - even renting out her house to support her passion for exploration.
Storytelling as a Bridge of Understanding
Parallel to her travel experiences, Jen launched a podcast called "The Human Experience" - a platform dedicated to sharing untold stories. Inspired by the loss of her storyteller grandfathers, she recognized how many incredible life experiences fade into obscurity when not documented.
Her podcast mission is simple yet powerful: platform stories from "ordinary" people who don't typically have massive public platforms. By doing so, she believes we can combat prejudice, build empathy, and recognize the extraordinary within seemingly mundane experiences.
Holding Life Loosely: A Radical Approach to Personal Growth
One of Jen's most transformative insights is the concept of "holding things loosely" - a philosophy that challenges our natural tendency to grip tightly to plans, expectations, and predetermined outcomes.
"The more you hold onto something tightly, the more likely it is to become damaged or distorted," she explains. This approach doesn't mean being passive, but rather remaining open, flexible, and willing to pivot when life presents unexpected opportunities.
Practical Wisdom for Personal Transformation
For those feeling stuck in life's prescribed paths, Jen offers practical advice:
Start small: You don't need to travel internationally to begin your journey of self-discovery. Explore your own city, step out of your comfort zone locally.
Build a supportive community: Surround yourself with people who encourage your dreams, even if they don't fully understand them.
Embrace change: Be willing to change your mind and direction without viewing it as a failure.
Recognize your agency: While we can't control everything, we can control our responses and choices.
The Ripple Effect of Authentic Living
Jen's story isn't just about personal transformation - it's about inspiring others to question societal narratives and design lives that genuinely resonate with their inner selves.
Her journey demonstrates that healing isn't about returning to who you were before challenging experiences, but about becoming someone entirely new - someone stronger, more compassionate, and more authentically you.
Conclusion: Your Unique Path Awaits!
In a world that often feels prescriptive, Jen Peterkin's story is a beacon of hope. It reminds us that our lives are not predetermined scripts but blank canvases waiting for our unique brushstrokes.
Whether your transformation involves travel, storytelling, or simply shifting your perspective, the most important journey is the one toward understanding yourself.
Are you ready to break free from the "shoulds" and write your own story?
I’m Kim Keane, coach and energy healer, and I’d love to help you transform your life, your relationships and ultimately build a path toward a loving, peaceful life. DM me or email me at kim@kimkeane.com if you want to get personalized support, download my Free Everyday Spirituality Handbook or get my EFT Tapping Booster Session to continue making progress on your healing journey!