Year in Italy

[NewYearsRevolution2020]

If you were mid 40's (OK, late) no children, no mortgage/house as rent, no partner, no significant private pension (just state contributions but have a 'nest' pension which I could contribute to for part of the year, no fixed career but some freelance work and were offered a year in Italy working in an art-based place (excellent international reputation, paid internship about 1200 euro a month) would you be unreasonable to go?

My head says knuckle down here and do the sensible thing. My heart which I have not listened to for a long time says go. Have one last fling with the world before you come back and settle down and do the mortgage/pension/9-5 job thing.

I would get Italian language classes, too. It is in the area of my career and would be very good experience.

I am feeling old, tired and jaded. AIBU to say yes to it?

What would make you say no in my situation?

Oh please go!! This just sounds wonderful. Wish it was me (only couldn't leave kids/hubby/my life). But seriously if you have this chance, just do it. Good luck!!xxx

I did a year abroad as part of my degree and it was the best year of my life OP. Absolutely go for it.

Well, you will be pleased to know that you all persuaded me to go. However, I have to now do the application so I guess nothing is fixed until you see it in black and white.

I don’t know why I even questioned it really.

Thank you all for helping me decide x

It is a completely reputable, recognised internationally internship in Florence. In my field of study.
Then there IS no "nonsense" to even get over is there?!

But I am not the fearless, Kate Adie wannabee that I was in my twenties.
Even more reason to do it.
Rediscover the fearlessness (&/or feel the fear & do it anyway ...)
Who knows what career opportunities or life chances might come of it?
Also ... you were offered this golden ticket at a renowned institution. Clearly senior folk think you are well worth the chance.

A bloody marvellous adventure: do it!

Of course you’re feeling a bit scared. And that’s the very reason to do it. Go, live, love and enjoy the experience, who knows what it may lead to, especially if it re-boots your creative practice. You may come back after a year, you may want to live there forever - but you won’t find out the answer to that by staying at home.

Or, if you change your mind just let me know and I’ll go instead.

I turn 60 in a couple of weeks time ;)

@watchmefly Yes, I’m going to apply. Fingers crossed!

Brava!

I’m excited for you, OP. And green with envy. All my art-gazing in Florence has been far too rushed!

@FramingDevice. How can you see all that art in a holiday? You can’t, can you?

I shall leisurely stroll around the city sashaying in and out of the galleries, followed by cafe watching in shades. The life of a flaneur calls...

Wow what an opportunity! Have the most amazing time and regale us with your stories!

I think if you don’t go you’ll always wonder what you missed out on.

If you go and it’s not great you could always quit. But I don’t see that happening because Italy is awesome.

Fabulous opportunity. Grab it and don’t look back.
I’m soooo jealous.

I’m reading The Enchanted April now

Go!