Life Updates: Why I Quit My PhD And Moved To Jamaica

A Journey of Change and Growth

Hello, Money Talk with Tiff community! This is Tiffany Grant, your resident money nerd and financial coach. It’s been an eventful summer full of significant changes and thrilling new experiences. In this blog post, I'll be diving deeper into my recent life updates, exploring the reasons behind my decisions, and reflecting on the lessons I've learned along the way. Whether you're considering a major life change or just curious about my journey, I hope you find value in these insights.

Quitting My PhD Program: A Hard but Necessary Decision

Let’s start with the first major update: I quit my PhD program in social work. Deciding to leave the program was one of the most challenging decisions I’ve ever made. So, why did I do it? Here's a deeper look into the multifaceted reasons that influenced my decision.

Shifting Goals: Initially, my aim was to become a tenured professor. However, as time passed, I realized that this career path no longer aligned with my long-term goals. My passion for financial education and entrepreneurship started to overshadow my academic ambitions. I found myself more often than not dreaming about workshops, podcasts, and one-on-one financial coaching sessions than academic tenure.
Lifestyle Changes: Around the same time, I decided to make a monumental lifestyle change by moving to another country—Jamaica. Enrolling in an in-person PhD program while planning such a huge move seemed impractical.
Health Priorities: Lastly, dealing with numerous health issues reinforced the need to reevaluate my priorities. The stress of the PhD program was no longer conducive to my well-being.

I’ve always been someone who finishes what she starts, so quitting was tough. But sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is to walk away from something that's no longer serving you.

Moving to Jamaica: A Leap of Faith for My Health and Family

The second big update is my move to Jamaica. Yes, you read that right—I packed up my life and my two youngest kids and moved to a different country. Here’s why:

Health Benefits: After several health scares related to my heart and blood pressure, I realized that a major change was essential. During a trip out of the country, I noticed a significant improvement in my health without my usual medications. Once back in the U.S., my symptoms returned. It became clear to me that something in my U.S. environment—whether it be food, lifestyle, or stress—was contributing to my health issues.
Quality of Life: Living in Jamaica has brought a much-desired simplicity and sense of community into our lives. Here, I hand wash clothes and hang them on the line. We spend more time outdoors, involved in community activities. It's a pace and quality of life that’s rejuvenating.
New Experiences for My Kids: This move has enriched my children’s lives with new cultural experiences and an appreciation for simplicity. They are engaging in activities like never before and forming relationships that are fostering their growth.

Moving to Jamaica has so far been one of the best decisions of my life. The community and slower pace have significantly improved my quality of life and health.

My African Adventure: Volunteering in Guinea

During the summer, I also had an eye-opening experience in Africa—I spent two weeks in Guinea. Here’s what that adventure entailed:

Volunteering with Winrock International: I traveled to Guinea to assist small business owners and entrepreneurs. My goal was to help them create effective business plans and set achievable goals. The experience was incredibly rewarding and enlightening. I collaborated with local entrepreneurs, sharing knowledge and learning from their experiences as well.
Cultural Enrichment: The trip was not only about work; I also immersed myself in the Guinean culture. Despite not speaking French, the predominant language, I formed strong bonds with the people there. The sense of community was palpable, reminding me of Jamaica in many ways. Everyone looked out for one another, reinforcing the idea that communal living is highly beneficial for mental well-being.
Personal Growth: This trip was an essential part of my personal journey. It made me realize how much we can accomplish with limited resources and the importance of community support. Living out of suitcases and minimal belongings taught me to value experiences over possessions, a lesson I’ve embraced wholeheartedly.

FAQ: Common Questions About Big Life Changes

How did you manage the logistics of moving to another country?

Planning a big move is never easy. I started in February, carefully planning every detail. From arranging housing in Jamaica to organizing the kids' schooling and packing essentials, it required meticulous planning. Utilizing online resources and connecting with local communities beforehand made the transition smoother.

What were the main challenges you faced when quitting your PhD program?

The most challenging part was overcoming the internal guilt of not finishing something I started. However, I realized that my mental and physical health was more important and that my ambitions had shifted.

How did Jamaican food and lifestyle impact your health positively?

The nutritional content and quality of food in Jamaica are markedly different from the U.S. Fresh, organic produce and fewer processed foods significantly improved my health. Moreover, the active, outdoor lifestyle contributed to lowering my stress levels and improving my overall well-being.

What advice do you have for someone thinking about making a big life change like moving to another country?

My advice is to plan meticulously but also be flexible. Connect with expat communities online before moving, visit the place to get a feel for it, and ensure that the new environment aligns with your personal goals and health needs. It's also crucial to have a financial cushion to manage any unexpected expenses or delays.

How can one get involved in volunteer opportunities like your trip to Guinea?

Organizations like Winrock International offer legit, structured volunteer programs. You can visit their website, review their opportunities, and apply based on your skills and interests. Volunteering abroad is fulfilling and offers a unique way to learn and grow personally and professionally.

Conclusion: Embracing Change for a Better Future

Change is never easy, but it’s often necessary for personal growth and happiness. Whether it’s quitting a PhD program that no longer aligns with your goals, moving to a new country for better health, or volunteering in a different part of the world, every step marks an important milestone in your journey.

My life has significantly enriched by these experiences, providing valuable lessons and a deeper understanding of what truly matters. I encourage everyone to step out of their comfort zones and embrace the unknown—you never know what awaits you on the other side.

Stay tuned for more updates and insights in upcoming podcasts and blog posts. As always, thank you for being part of the Money Talk With Tiff community!