Kenneth VanDerBeck, based in San Diego, CA, is an attorney with a multifaceted background in medicine, firefighting and law. Originally from New Jersey, he studied at the University of Florida, where he cultivated a deep commitment to law, medicine, and service. A strong advocate for community support, he volunteers with Newbreak Church and the Red Cross, embodying his values of compassion, integrity, and dedication.
Kenneth is passionate about sports, engaging in rugby, football, tennis, and swimming, activities that reflect his belief in discipline, teamwork, and resilience. Family and friends have been pivotal influences in his life, helping shape his values and guiding him in his personal and professional journey.
An enthusiastic traveler, Kenneth has explored Spain and lived in Mexico and the United States. His goal is to continue discovering new cultures, broadening his perspectives, and connecting with people globally. In his downtime, he enjoys music from artists like Bruce Springsteen, Sting, and Ray LaMontagne, finding both inspiration and relaxation through their lyrics.
Driven by a commitment to lifelong learning, Kenneth continuously sets goals aligned with his core values. He views success as a harmonious balance between one’s actions and aspirations, believing that a fulfilling life is achieved by staying true to oneself, embracing growth, and maintaining balance in all areas of life.
What was your life like before you started making travel a big part of your life?
Before I focused on making travel a big part of my life, things felt a bit routine. I was busy with work, responsibilities, and the daily grind. I didn’t feel like I had a lot of fresh experiences or ways to really expand my perspective. I knew there was more out there, but I hadn’t made time for it. Life was good, but it was missing that sense of adventure and discovery.
What emotions were you feeling before you dealt with the issue?
I felt a bit restless and stuck. It was a mix of curiosity and frustration. I knew there was a whole world out there to see, but I hadn’t taken that first big step to go explore it. Sometimes, I felt like I was in a rut. I needed something new, something to shake things up.
How was this issue affecting your life?
It was holding me back from feeling fully alive. Without new experiences, my days started to blend together. I wanted to break out of that cycle and feel like I was really living, not just going through the motions. It was like I was missing out on a bigger purpose or connection. It made me realize that I needed to start exploring beyond my comfort zone.
What specific strategies or practices did you implement to address the issue?
I started by just setting small goals. I planned short trips at first to nearby places. I researched cultures, languages, and planned activities that would give me a deeper experience. I also connected with locals to get real insights into each place. It wasn’t just about seeing new places but really immersing myself.
Where did you first hear about this strategy or practice?
Honestly, a lot of it was from talking to friends who traveled a lot. They shared how they planned their trips and made the most out of their experiences. I also read some travel blogs and forums, which gave me practical tips and inspired me to go for it. Seeing how others made it work showed me I could too.
Please give our readers a step-by-step guide, so they can implement the strategies you used.
Start with research: pick a place, learn the basics about its culture, language, and main attractions.
Set small goals: plan a short trip close to home or a place you’ve always wanted to visit.
Budget and save: make a plan for the trip expenses so it’s manageable.
Reach out to locals: use forums or apps to connect with people who live there for tips.
Embrace the experience: be open-minded, explore, and try new things without over-scheduling.
How long did it take before you saw or felt changes occurring?
Pretty quickly, honestly. After my first trip, I felt like a new door had opened. It only took a couple of trips for me to start seeing travel as a priority, not just an occasional thing. Within a few months, I felt more open, energized, and excited to plan the next journey. It didn’t take long at all to feel the positive impact.
What challenges did you face along the way of your personal transformation?
One of the biggest challenges was balancing travel with work and life commitments. Budgeting for trips was also tough at first. There were times I felt nervous going to a new place alone, wondering if I’d be able to navigate or connect with others. But each challenge taught me something valuable and boosted my confidence.
How did you address those challenges?
I learned to plan around my work schedule and take shorter trips when I couldn’t go far. For budgeting, I started setting aside a small amount each month just for travel. As for nerves, I realized that connecting with locals or other travelers made a huge difference in how comfortable I felt. I also learned to go with the flow more and trust myself.
What is life like for you now?
Now, life feels richer and more meaningful. Travel has become a big part of who I am and what I value. I feel like I’m learning constantly, meeting incredible people, and seeing new perspectives. It’s changed the way I view the world and even how I approach my daily life. I’m more open, curious, and driven to keep exploring.
From a broader perspective, what have you learned about yourself through this experience?
I’ve learned that I need experiences that push me out of my comfort zone. Travel helped me see how adaptable I am and that I can handle challenges. I discovered I love meeting people from different backgrounds and learning from them. It’s shown me how much there is to see and learn in the world. This journey has made me realize that growth happens when I’m open and willing to try new things.
What advice would you give others facing this challenge?
Start small and don’t overthink it. Just plan a trip, even if it’s somewhere close by. Be open to meeting new people and trying new things; that’s where the magic happens. Don’t let fears or doubts stop you—those feelings fade as you gain experiences. Remember, travel doesn’t have to be extravagant to be meaningful. Just go for it, and let yourself be changed by the journey.
What continues to give you strength?
Knowing that each new experience adds something valuable to my life keeps me going. Travel has taught me resilience and adaptability, which helps in every part of life. The people I meet and the stories I hear inspire me. It’s the idea that there’s always something new to learn and explore. That sense of wonder is what keeps me grounded and driven.