How a Nomad and a bowl of noodles shifted my perspective

In the bustling heart of Nairobi, where skyscrapers pierce the sky and the daily grind never seems to end, there’s a conversation taking the world by storm. It’s not about the latest tech innovation or the stock market’s ups and downs. No, it’s the tale of Janet, who bid farewell to her well-established IT job in the city and set out on a daring escapade to embrace the life of a digital nomad, off-grid in the serene wilderness of Kimana, Kajiado County.

“I decided I needed a change, a real escape from the rat race,” Janet confesses with a twinkle in her eye. “So, I bought this cheap piece of land in Kimana, and I’m building my little farm to be self-reliant.”

Janet lives a life that’s a far cry from the hustle and bustle of Nairobi. She’s off-grid, relying on solar power and rainwater harvesting, and the only time she ventures to civilization is when she makes the 30-minute drive to Emali, a nearby town, to stock up on essentials. But her IT skills haven’t gone to waste. She’s found a way to blend her tech-savvy side with her newfound farming lifestyle.

“I still utilize my IT skills,” Janet says as she juggles a tablet and a shovel. “I’ve set up a smart irrigation system for my farm, and I can monitor it remotely from my cozy little house.”

As I join Janet in her humble abode, we decide to whip up a quick and delicious meal of Nala Noodles. It’s a brand of noodles that’s become a staple in her off-grid life. As we chat about her escapade, she effortlessly tosses the noodles in a pan, sizzling it meticulously with her farm produce, an egg and some left over chicken and vegetable broth. At this time I try not to get distracted by the culinary masterpiece.

“It’s funny,” she says, “Nala Noodles have become my go-to comfort food out here. They cook up so easily, and I can enjoy them with this stunning view of Mt. Kilimanjaro.”

Indeed, as we sit down to enjoy our meal, the majestic silhouette of Kilimanjaro looms on the horizon, a constant reminder of the beauty and tranquility of Janet’s escape. The noodles, perfectly cooked, provide a burst of flavor that’s as satisfying as the view.

“But that’s not all,” Janet continues, savoring a forkful of noodles. “I also take a short 15-minute drive to Amboseli National Park whenever I want to witness the beauty of African wildlife, especially the elephants.”

As we delve deeper into the perks of her new life, Janet shares how she’s learned to grow her own vegetables and even raise a few chickens. “Being self-reliant is incredibly fulfilling,” she says. “And the simplicity of life out here is a welcome change from the chaos of the city.”

As our conversation winds down, I can’t help but be drawn to the delicious aroma of the Nala Noodles. Janet smiles knowingly, and I can see the wheels turning in my head.

“I have to say,” I admit, “these Nala Noodles are fantastic. They’ll definitely be something I look forward to as I drive back to Nairobi and contemplate making the switch to the digital nomadic life, taking lessons from you, Janet.”

Janet chuckles, taking a final bite of her noodles. “Well, I’m always here if you need advice on escaping the rat race. And remember, life is too short not to enjoy a great meal and a spectacular view.”

As I drive back to Nairobi, Janet’s story lingers in my mind like a sweet dream slowly fading with the dawn. It’s not just about the noodles, the mountain views, or the wildlife encounters. It’s about the freedom she’s claimed, the connection to the earth she’s cultivated, and the courage she’s displayed in embracing a different way of life.

As I reenter the urban jungle of Nairobi, I reflect on the lessons learned from Janet. Her escapade has reminded me that the road less traveled is not just about physical distance but a journey of self-discovery. We all have the potential to escape our own ‘rat race,’ whatever it may be, and chart a new course toward a life that truly resonates with our desires.

Janet’s story is a motivational note to self, urging me to chase dreams and embrace change, to seek fulfillment over routine, and to savor life’s simple pleasures. Her escapade might not be for everyone, but the spirit of adventure, resilience, and self-reliance that she embodies is an inspiration to all of us.

So, as I navigate the bustling streets of Nairobi, I keep Janet’s story close to my heart, knowing that the escape we seek may not always require a change of location but a change in perspective. After all, the true journey to self-discovery begins within us, no matter where we find ourselves.