At age 32, Micheal McKay was outwardly successful. He had a profitable business, he owned a condo in a trendy part of town, and was engaged to be married. But, deep down he was unhappy. So, in 2015 he blew up his life and moved to Cambodia, where an opportunity to work had come up. He’s been in Cambodia the last six years and in today’s conversation we hear what he’s learned on his journey, his thoughts and advice on goal setting, happiness, privilege, and not waiting to do the things you really want in life.
About Micheal
In 2014 I had everything. I was 32, running my own company, owned a condo, and was teaching advertising one day a week. I was engaged to the “girl that got away” and we had two dogs together. I had everything I thought I wanted, but I wasn’t happy.
In early 2015 I blew up my life. An opportunity came to work at a Social Innovation Lab in Cambodia and I took it.
I’ve been abroad for six years, and without reservation, I can say it’s the best—and hardest—thing I’ve ever done. I’ve visited thirteen countries, and met people from dozens more. My ideals about life, my values, my intellectual and emotional boundaries—all of it has been challenged. My ignorance of the world, bared, and my first-world privilege, shamefully exposed. I’m not the same person anymore. And I am so glad.
These days I am working on my MBA while consulting on various business, innovation, and behavioural projects. I’m also a business partner in a social enterprise that sells eco-friendly and ethically made toys, knitted by women in Cambodia. It provides them with fair, flexible employment, and products that people love. I love business and I believe it’s possible to do good for the world and make a profit.
Connect with Micheal at michealmckay.com.
Resources and information discussed in this episode
Danielle Laporte - Desire Map
Social enterprise Michael is part of - Beebee+Bongo
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Thank you for listening!
Learn more about Vera Ilnyckyj on her website createyourbestchapter.com
