Part 1) Is Running Away From Home Really Worth It?
Running away sounds great, doesn’t it? No longer will you have to put up with all the bullshit of life. You won’t have to do what your parents tell you and you won’t have to go to school or work. You can be your own person and do whatever you decide.
However, running away from home is no insignificant undertaking and it can have huge implications for you, your family, and friends. Not to mention, it can be extremely dangerous and even illegal in some states. So before you hastily make a decision, pack your bags and head out the front door, you need to seriously ponder over whether running away is really worth it.
A very wise man once told me, never do anything unless you can think of three very good reasons to do so. In order to help you make a decision, below you will find a short list of the pros and cons of running away that I have learned from experience.
Pros:
1) You will experience a freedom that most people only dream of.
2) You will travel, see amazing places, and meet remarkable people.
3) You will gain a new perspective on life.
4) You will overcome many of your fears and grow as a person.
5) You will become very skilled at living outdoors.
Cons:
1) You will go at least a few days without food on some occasions.
2) You will freeze on the street under a cold night rain.
3) You will encounter robbers, drug dealers, crazy homeless people and prostitutes.
4) There won’t be many people around who you can talk to.
5) You will seriously hurt your family who most likely loves you dearly.
If you think that any three of these pros outweigh the cons, then maybe running away is meant for you. But if you don’t think you can handle the cons, then you should try to confront and overcome what ever it is that is bothering you and work it out at home.
Even if you do think running away is worth it, you should think it over once more. You should know that life is long and there will be plenty of time to travel the world when you are older. I know it’s hard to have perspective right now when you are stuck at home but you need to try. There is always hope, and if you stay strong, disciplined and preserver, you will become a more confident and happier person in the long run. Remember, the more you suffer, the more unique and compassionate you become. Finally, you should know that while travel will give you perspective, it can’t make you happy. Happiness comes from within, so if you aren’t happy at home, you won’t find it anywhere.
If you are still dead set on getting away and traveling, you should check out my Runaway Possibilities section for more orthodox travel options. If you’re parents are totally opposed to you traveling, learn how to convince them to let you run away. If you can’t wait and want to go now, keep reading to learn how to prepare. Disclaimer: The Runaway Guide does not condone or encourage literally running away from home if you are not an adult.













{ 19 comments… read them below or add one }
thanks for so much helpful advise.
This is so motivating you are still on the run,I am thinking of running away soon …is there any advice that you want to give me? I have read things on the internet of what to take and also when to do it ,but i also want to know how life is when you actually run away.Annonomous xx
Hey,
I am not actually on the run anymore. While I am on the road, I am not avoiding police these days. When I was on the run for real though, life was hard. It was really intense and I despite all the adventures, I don’t think I would do it again.
What great insite. Thank you Leif for telling your story. You may help other in more ways than anyone can imagine.
xoxo
Aunt Trish
Hey :)
First of all I have to say I love your website. You’re my role model.
Second I was thinking of running away. Not sure /when/ hell it may not be for the next year or two. But maybe you should make a guide on that little extra protection? Being a girl that weighs less than 100 pounds, is only 5″2 and cannot protect herself for her life (which I guess would be a common problem on the run), this is virtually my only fear. Any suggestions?
Thanks and love the site again, me.
Hey thanks!! I just met a chinese canadian girl with the same stats. She is going all over the world over the next two years. As long as you don’t take chances you should be alright. Best,
Leif :)
i feel like running away some days, but this actually make me think; should i really run away? and the honest answer after i read this, was no. not really.
I might just be over-reacting.
so thanks, i’ve changed my mind.
ab xx
Wow, I’ve never seen a blog quite like this! I don’t even know what to say! Gosh, I thought I was alone on my feelings of escaping. I’ve had just little tastes of freedom. I’ve been traveling to Europe on my own since I was 15, but I need more! You just can’t trap a free spirit, not mine at least. I must break free. I feel being to be plugged into a puzzle piece because I will break..! Anyways, thank you for this section or blog altogether. I needed some guidance! I’ve looked through books and movies and documentaries but never have I heard, read or watched something on a person who has actually “escaped” and shares their experience and advice. And slowly but surely I will be free too.
I hear ya! Go for it again! Let me know if you ever need advice. Best, Leif :)
Medical conditions. Have you ever met a type one diabetic on the run? Just wondering, as I am diabetic myself, and can’t really imagine doing any of this without seriously getting sick. :(
Hey, no, I am sorry. I have no idea about how you would make that work.
hey, what`s the best season to set up a journey?
Definitely Spring.
do you ever wonder what would have happened if you didnt run away…
To be honest, I actually never have. It is such a big part of my life that I don’t think it could have happened any other way. I wonder though where or what I would be.
I`m 22,after 4 years be away from home for university.. now I came back to home,and i really depressed more befor 4 years ago,i want just leave home,i cant bear this situation ……..why i cant go home??? i`m a girl and really fear of sick people in society,if i`m hurt,what can i do????
Hey Donya,
Where are you from?
I would tell you to go travel and trust in the good in people.
Kids have been running away- successfully and not so for a REALLY long time. Instead of looking for a cause for their son’s need to flee- they are looking to blame. I think it’s reprehensible that they picked you. I’d chat with a few barracuda attorneys about suing for slander- this hurts your reputation and causes you to do damage control. Maybe someone will want to sue Fox’s butt off on a contingency. Be worth a try!
Blame the teens for running away not the info online they used to do it through research
thankyou Leif i finally found the courage to runaway from this place ^_^