UPTHINKING FINANCE

• The story behind how Tim and Stephany met [2:43]
• How their dream to sail the world came to fruition [7:05] 
• The moment they realized they could make a living [18:54] 
• What it’s like spending their days in the Caribbean [21:20] 
• The moments that made them realize they made the right move [27:59] 
• What they’ve learned about themselves by taking a leap of faith [33:05] 
• They share why you shouldn’t wait to chase your dreams [36:49] 

Tim landed in the medical technology field after college. A friend that worked for World Sports Promotions called him up and asked him to ski for a promotion in Jackson, WY. Long story short, he took a leave of absence to do that job. 

He skied, ran marketing promotions, and worked harder than ever. He constantly traveled and worked crazy hours. Tim thrived in this life and loved every minute of it. Eventually, he went to work for this company full-time, working his way up the ladder. The company continued expanding, hiring, and growing. 

One of his colleagues asked him to interview a potential hire—Stephany. Tim ended up recommending her for the job. He was in awe of her. She had already traveled the world and was living the life he loved. Eventually, they started a relationship. 

Tim booked a sailboat for a sunset cruise and proposed to Stephany over dinner. They had hundreds of ideas of how to get married. But they decided to go sailing with a crew and close friends. They constantly talked about that trip. 

Tim had parted ways with his company and launched his own business with a friend. Their business continued to grow. Tim and Stephany spent all of their free time sailing and their interest in sailing full-time never faded. 

They went to boat shows every year. They read boating magazines. They started telling people that their goal was to sail around the world. Then they created a 10-year plan to retire early and sail the world.

After a series of events, Tim exited his company and they started traveling Central and South America. They wanted to experience different cultures. They always found themselves by the water. They finally decided to buy their boat ahead of schedule and start living their dream.

They spent the first year learning the boat, exploring the islands, obtaining licenses, and learning to be jacks of all trades. They had to learn the roles of electrician, plumber, sailor, weatherman, navigator, bartender, host, and chef. They needed first responder, water rescue, and firefighting training.

Tim notes that there’s nothing like waking up in the morning, grabbing a cup of coffee, and walking out to see the beautiful bay you’re anchored in. You’re surrounded by beautiful beaches, lush jungles, and sparkling water. 

They’re running luxury yachts with all of the creature comforts of home. They get to go to all of their favorite places. They can drop anchor and go explore.

Your office moves wherever you want to go. It’s a slower, more relaxed life.

There are some creature comforts that they miss. It takes time and planning to buy something and wait for it to get shipped to the island. They can’t just call an ambulance if there’s a medical emergency. There aren’t large grocery stores with aisles of food. But they’re always busy working, researching, fixing things, running errands, and enjoying life. 

Stephany points out that you can’t be afraid of the unknown. You can’t let the “what-ifs” dictate every life choice you make. Fear stifles you. And every challenge they’ve faced they’ve overcome together, which builds their confidence. Everyone can do far more than they think they can.

They didn't want to wait until retirement to start their dream. You’re not guaranteed your future. Tim points out they’ve lost close friends and it’s devastating to think they planned for a future that never happened. 

Who are you living your life for? If you have a dream, formulate a plan to make it happen earlier. Take a sabbatical and live your dream for a period of time. Take action toward reaching your dreams. Replace “I wish” in your vocabulary with “I will” and “I am.” Don’t “I wish” until it’s too late. 

Tim & Stephany Mauer are not affiliated with or endorsed by LPL Financial or Capital Investment Advisers.

Securities and Advisory services offered through LPL Financial. A registered investment advisor. Member FINRA & SIPC.

The financial professionals associated with LPL Financial may discuss and/or transact business only with residents of the states in which they are properly registered or licensed. No offers may be made or accepted from any resident of any other state. 

• The One for the Money podcast

• Sail the Endless Pleasure
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