should I perhaps do a Hobbes and become nomadic for a few years.
While I have lived as a nomad for the last 2.5 years it was never my intention to stay a nomad. I knew I would settle down somewhere - part of the reason for the trip was to find out where.
This was something I prepared for mentally as well as physically.
Physically, I loaded my bike up as much as possible even for a weekend trip. I cycled and camped in winter, down to -10C. I taught myself basic, rudimentary mechanics. I cooked and ate "Trangia food" even at home perfecting different dishes. Not to mention getting a handle on all the logistics.
Mentally I learned to drop the stresses of daily life on the edge of town and methods of clearing my head when things weren't going well.
Travelling, by bike or by narrow boat, is far more enjoyable and sustainable when we don't focus on the negative but seek out the positive and are able to tolerate the uncomfortable. I believe there is a mindset of a "good traveller" that doesn't judge but accepts. There is no "better" or "worse", no "good" or "bad" just difference.
Human nature and a lifetime of experience can make that sound like pie in the sky. It may not be possible all the time, but it's certainly possible most of the time in my experience. Just not in Panama
The great thing about travel, especially my kind of travel, is the whole process tends to clear the mind from all the usual, daily crap. If I'm stuck in a traffic jam every morning going to work then it's much harder to see the positive. Being stuck in a traffic jam on a Colombian road because of a mudslide (or perhaps the army trying to sweep out some terrorists) is different.
I would never have considered checking if a hotel had hot water but these days it's a treat!
A lot of it comes from a focus on "being in the moment". A realisation when things are good that this is a passing moment and that we should make the best of it and that when times are tough that they too are temporary.
Mindfulness concentrates on being in the moment and helps us acquire tools to adjust ourselves to it. If you're not familiar with it I'd suggest a little investigation.
I've referenced it many times on various threads, the importance of my "Touring head". The mental state that I am in. I've met too many people on tour without their head (metaphorically) and they are not happy.
Solo travel has advantages and disadvantages. Looking back I think I needed some alone time but at this stage I think I've had enough. Covid has meant a lot of alone time, especially in México.
If this is something you really want to do then I suggest to practice as much as you can. Out for a walk or a bike ride tell yourself that this is a part of your new life and you're going to look at things differently. Not to get wound up by the "boy racer" or the litter in the verge. Whenever a "dark cloud" shows up on your mental horizon make a conscious effort to distract yourself. To make the most of what you do have, not what's missing or "wrong". Look for unexplored routes to help the "freshness". Take photos and compare them over time. And look for inspiration.
The more you do the better you get at it. Then you'll be in a better position to determine if it's a life for you or better as an option to dip in and out of as you feel the need and have the opportunity.
Here is a post that outlines my motivations and the process that brought me to where I am. Be warned! It's long!
https://www.cyclechat.net/threads/t...-just-tell-him-your-plans.254046/post-6312796
Good luck!
. The itch for another long trip seems to have waned, but I wouldn't rule it out.
but I find cycling more enjoyable when I'm not my usual chubby self 
