Today, my boss and I had The conversation; that is the one about when I expect to quit and head back north. It came up as another conversation turned to Dawson City and travel in the north between 1969 and 1979.

I made the decision when I hit the road to be upfront with potential employers about my intent to be only a temporary worker. A lot of people told me that would hurt my chances of finding work and that it was no one’s business that I had no intention of staying for more than a few months.

Being honest with my employers has been the best choice. Sure, some jobs like the nursery and the communications contract were sold as temporary positions, but my current position wasn’t. If I had pretended that I was looking for a long term job, I would have had to watch every word I say and always be on my guard. Instead, I’ve been able to have interesting conversations with my boss and colleagues about my lifestyle, where I’ve been, and where I plan to go. My temporary status didn’t even impede me from getting a raise this month!

Sure, I’ve probably lost out on dozens of jobs by being forthright, but living openly is truly the way to go. Moreover, I’ve had people admit to me that they Googled me before inviting me for an interview, so lying really wouldn’t be possible for me now anyway.

As for the answer to his question, I have three full months left in Campbell River and am still on target to leave May 1stish.