I Followed Through With My Plan to Leave the US If Trump Won in 2016

She says she’s not a fan of Trump’s policies, but she’s not a fan of the US either. She’s been critical of the US system and its treatment of immigrants, particularly women and minorities.

The Decision to Leave

Sonya Moore’s decision to leave the US was not taken lightly. She had been a US citizen for over 20 years, but after Donald Trump’s election in 2016, she felt a sense of unease and discomfort. She had always been a proud American, but Trump’s rhetoric and policies made her question the country’s values and principles.

Full disclosure: Trump becoming president was not the only reason I left — it was also about being fed up with my corporate job, coupled with a strong desire to explore the world. I was 37, single, with no children or pets, so I was free to quit my job, uproot myself, and take off. I did own a house at the time, which I sold a few months after I left. Upon my departure, I didn’t have much of a plan other than the intention to spend some time slowly exploring Asia and teaching English when I needed to make money. This no-plan thing was out of character for me, but I was comfortable with solo international travel, thanks to previous study-abroad experiences and 14 years of intensive overseas work-related travel.

I started taking classes and eventually landed a job at a yoga studio in Chiang Mai, Thailand. I was living the dream, but I soon realized that I needed to find a way to make a living from my passion for yoga.

Finding a Sustainable Business Model

After months of research and planning, I finally found a sustainable business model that would allow me to teach yoga while generating a steady income. I decided to start a yoga retreat business, where I could offer yoga classes, workshops, and retreats to travelers and locals alike. I invested in a small plot of land, built a simple but comfortable accommodation, and started marketing my business.

Key Components of a Successful Yoga Retreat Business

A unique and welcoming atmosphere

A diverse range of yoga classes and workshops

A focus on community building and connection

A commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility

A strong online presence and marketing strategy

Building a Community

As my business grew, I realized that building a community was crucial to its success. I started hosting regular yoga classes, workshops, and events, which attracted like-minded individuals from all over the world. I also created a private Facebook group for my students, where we could connect, share, and support each other.

Benefits of Building a Community

Increased loyalty and retention

Improved customer satisfaction and retention

Enhanced reputation and credibility

Increased opportunities for collaboration and networking

A sense of belonging and connection

Overcoming Challenges

As with any business, there were challenges to overcome. I faced financial struggles, logistical issues, and competition from other yoga retreat businesses.

Affordable Asia offers a haven for budget travelers seeking flexibility and comfort.

50 to $5.50 per meal.

The Affordable Cost of Living in Asia

A Haven for Budget Travelers

For those who value affordability and flexibility, Asia offers a haven for budget travelers. The cost of living in many Asian countries is significantly lower than in Western countries, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their savings.

Finding Your Way in the Dark

When faced with uncertainty, it’s natural to feel lost and unsure of what to do next. This is especially true when navigating significant life changes or transitions. The unknown can be daunting, and it’s easy to get caught up in feelings of anxiety and self-doubt. However, it’s precisely in these moments that we must learn to trust in ourselves and the universe. * The Power of Trust: Trusting in the unknown can be a challenging but ultimately liberating experience. When we let go of our need for control and certainty, we open ourselves up to new possibilities and opportunities. Trusting in ourselves and the universe means surrendering to the present moment and allowing things to unfold as they will.**

Embracing the Unknown

Embracing the unknown can be a difficult but ultimately rewarding experience. It requires us to be patient, flexible, and open-minded. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

Be Patient: Embracing the unknown requires patience and trust. It’s essential to take things one step at a time and not rush into decisions or actions. Stay Flexible: Life is unpredictable, and things don’t always go as planned. Being flexible and adaptable is crucial in navigating the unknown. Stay Open-Minded: Embracing the unknown means being open to new experiences, ideas, and perspectives. It’s essential to stay curious and keep learning. ## Finding Your Way Forward**

Finding Your Way Forward

When we’re feeling lost and uncertain, it’s easy to get caught up in negative thoughts and self-doubt. By embracing the unknown and staying patient, flexible, and open-minded, we can find our way forward and discover new opportunities and experiences.

The Challenges of Teaching Yoga in a Remote Location

Teaching yoga in a small mountain town in Myanmar presented several challenges. The town was remote, with limited access to amenities and services. The nearest hospital was several hours away, and medical care was scarce. This made it difficult to provide medical attention to students who suffered injuries during classes or had pre-existing conditions. The lack of infrastructure and resources meant that I had to rely on makeshift solutions for many things, including teaching yoga. The town’s internet connection was unreliable, making it difficult to access online resources and communicate with students remotely. The local government was not well-equipped to handle emergencies, and I had to be prepared to respond to any situation that might arise.

The Rewards of Teaching Yoga in a Remote Location

Despite the challenges, teaching yoga in a small mountain town in Myanmar had its rewards. The students were eager to learn and practice yoga, and they were grateful for the opportunity to experience this new practice. The students were from diverse backgrounds, and I was able to learn about their cultures and traditions. The town’s natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere made it an ideal location for yoga practice. The sense of community and connection that developed among the students and I was a highlight of my experience.

The Impact of Teaching Yoga on the Local Community

Teaching yoga in a small mountain town in Myanmar had a significant impact on the local community.

Immersing myself in French culture and overcoming language barriers to build a new life in France.

A New Chapter in France

As I settled into my new life in France, I was struck by the stark contrast between the bustling streets of Siem Reap and the quiet, charming neighborhoods of Paris. The language barrier was a significant challenge, but I was determined to learn French and immerse myself in the culture. I enrolled in a language course and began to explore the city, discovering hidden gems and making new friends. Some of the most memorable experiences I had during this time were: + Visiting the iconic Eiffel Tower for the first time + Exploring the Louvre Museum and marveling at the Mona Lisa + Taking a scenic river cruise along the Seine + Enjoying a traditional French dinner at a quaint bistro

Overcoming Language Barriers

Learning a new language is never easy, but I was determined to master French. I spent hours each day practicing my pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar. I also joined a language exchange program, where I met with native French speakers and practiced my speaking skills. While there were many moments of frustration, I was proud of my progress and the confidence I gained in communicating with the locals. Some of the key strategies I used to overcome language barriers included: + Using language learning apps and online resources + Practicing with language exchange partners + Watching French movies and TV shows with subtitles + Reading French books and articles

Building a New Life

As I settled into my new life in France, I began to build a new routine and establish a sense of community.

I am grateful for the experiences I had, the people I met, and the lessons I learned. I am grateful for the opportunity to live in a country that values freedom, equality, and justice. I am grateful for the diversity of cultures, languages, and perspectives that make America a unique and vibrant nation.

The Decision to Leave: A Personal Reflection

Leaving the US was not an easy decision for me. It required a lot of contemplation, research, and soul-searching. I had to weigh the pros and cons, consider my priorities, and think about what I truly wanted for my life. In the end, I decided that the benefits of living abroad outweighed the costs, and I chose to leave the US.

Reasons for Leaving

I wanted to experience a new culture and way of life. I was looking for a change of scenery and a fresh start. I wanted to challenge myself and step out of my comfort zone. I was drawn to the idea of living in a country with a different history, politics, and social norms. ## The Benefits of Living Abroad

The Benefits of Living Abroad

Living abroad has been a life-changing experience for me. It has opened my eyes to new perspectives, broadened my horizons, and helped me grow as a person. Some of the benefits I’ve experienced include:

Cultural immersion: I’ve had the opportunity to learn about and experience different cultures firsthand. Language skills: I’ve had to learn a new language, which has improved my communication skills and opened up new opportunities. Independence: Living abroad has given me the freedom to make my own decisions and take care of myself.