One of the promises I made to myself when I moved to Japan was simple:

Say yes.

Not to everything, I’ve never been one to make reckless decisions (besides moving to the other side of the planet), nothing that would get me arrested, deported, or stranded three prefectures away with no money and no charger. But to experiences, opportunities, and those little moments that make life feel bigger, better, and more exciting than it was before.

Over the last four weeks, I’ve been trying to keep that promise.

I’ve eaten foods I’ve never tried before – most have been delicious while others have left me wondering if maybe there are limits to my culinary desires. Even a quick stop at a convenience store can turn into an unexpected adventure when you’re willing to pick up something I’ve never seen before.

I’ve also been exploring new work locations.

Most days I teach from my usual location, but recently I had the chance to spend some time at a different learning center. The experience pushed me out of my comfort zone, introducing me to instructors from different parts of the world and exposing me to new approaches to teaching. I enjoyed every minute of it, but the experience also reminded me how much I’ve come to appreciate my home location.

But this week marked a time of change, not just for me, but for thousands of people across Japan as they watched one of the biggest names in J-pop, Arashi,  take the stage for the final time. It’s the end of an era and a reminder that nothing lasts forever. Careers change, dreams evolve, and people move on. Sometimes the best thing we can do is appreciate the moment while we’re standing inside it, because there’s no guarantee tomorrow will look the same as today. In fact, more often than not, it won’t – and maybe that’s another reason I’ve been saying yes lately.

Because opportunities don’t wait forever.

Neither does adventures.

Of course, there is one small problem with this philosophy.

More often than not, adventure requires money – which is something I’ve always been bad at. Not catastrophically terrible, but I am discovering that there is a significant difference between “living life” and “accidentally treating every day like a vacation.”

A new restaurant here. A new Saior Moon find there.

A concert good. A special snack. A random purchase that seemed like a fantastic idea until I realize I already have it. 

Living in Japan has made me realize that budgeting is not something I ever learned (despite the constant pleading of my father). But I’m trying, and so far I’m still swimming. The goal isn’t to stop exploring, it’s to make sure I can still explore tomorrow.

I’m still learning, and honestly, that’s what this journey has always been about.

Just taking chances.Trying new things. Making mistakes.

Learning – and continuing to move forward.

I’m proud of myself and I’m still excited for tomorrow. There will be more soon, so until then… 

Stay Tuned!