About two years ago, I was going on a crucial four-day business trip. My flight was early in the morning, so in addition to getting myself out the door in time, I had to ensure the rest of the family were ready early too. My husband had his usual hectic work day to look forward to, and the girls needed their usual school-day morning support ensuring that food was eaten, appropriate clothes were on, hair was brushed, teeth were brushed, etc. It was a typically hectic morning, with all of us pulling on our coats and gloves as we rushed out the door.
When we finally got through rush hour traffic and arrived at the airport, my husband got out of the car to unload my suitcase from the trunk while I said goodbye to the girls. Suddenly, in a stressed voice, my husband yelled out “where is your bag?” In our haste to get out of the house on time, my husband had left my bag just inside the front door. There was no time to go home to get my forgotten suitcase.
I was, however, wearing business clothes and had my carry-on bag, with wallet, passport, and laptop. What else could I do? I laughed and moved into the airport feeling light and carefree, without a suitcase or children to watch out for.
As soon as I got to my hotel, I asked the concierge for directions to the nearest clothing shops. I was in luck. Only a few blocks away, was a bustling market with pedestrian-only streets – but it closed in one hour’s time. I had no choice: it was late afternoon and I had an important early morning meeting the next day – I had to go to the street market. As it turned out, I was able to get toiletries, three simple business shirts, and a business skirt (all for under $40). I also ate some amazing street food and earned the ability, after being in country for only a few hours, to be the street food expert at the regional meeting the next day!
It was a liberating experience, this disaster with my suitcase. When I travel now, even more so than before, I pack very lightly. If I truly need something, I can get it there.
As I step down next week from my current hectic senior position with a high-powered company, about to face an unknown work future, I can’t help but remember that adventure without my suitcase. Without baggage, I was able to more fully engage, to more fully respond, and to more fully absorb.
I am packing lightly for the career path ahead…
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