We had the good fortune of connecting with Anna Cook and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Anna, how do you think about risk?
Risk is always involved with the big decisions you make in life. The way I look at risk is “What’s the worst that could happen?” and then figure out what I would do in that situation. When starting my own business and deciding to leave my job I asked myself that question and decided that worst-case the business failed and I wasted time and money. If that did happen all it means is I would have to get another job. I didn’t waste time and money because I gained valuable experience and invested in myself. So when I evaluate risk I look at my worst-case scenarios. Can I live with them? Will I be able to bounce back? If so then the risk is likely worth it. I also think about whether the reward outweighs these worst-case situations and the potential risks.

When looking back over my life the risks I’ve taken are the reason I’m where I am today. If the risk paid off, it propelled me forward. If it was a flop, then at least I tried something and I learned so much more with the failures than with the successes.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I never thought of myself as creative and definitely never thought of myself as a writer. My degree was in Mathematical Economics if that tells you anything. Then I discovered the world of travel blogging. I love to travel and wanted to be a teacher when I was younger so with travel blogging I get to combine both! I teach people how to travel smarter and introduce them to new destinations and things to do that they may not have thought about. I love focusing on small towns in the southern US since I grew up in North Carolina. I write for people who have a similar travel style as me – they have a home base instead of being nomads, are money-conscious but will splurge on unique experiences, and they love any outdoor activity and are a bit of a foodie. I am most proud of how far I’ve come since I began this journey. I knew nothing about building a website, photography, social media marketing, or even how people made money online. It took many hours before and after work (when I was working full time) and investments in a few courses but now I am proud of the skills that I’ve gained and continue to develop daily! It wasn’t easy to get here and it took a lot of hard work and persistence and I’ve figured out that building a business is a journey in self-development. Here are a few lessons that I’ve learned:

Start with a big-picture goal and then break that down into the small steps that will get you there. Those small steps are your daily tasks.

Figure out the tasks that move the needle the most and focus on those. You don’t need to do what everyone else is doing or be on every platform to be successful.

Your community – whether online or in-person – is one of your biggest assets. Give to your community and it will give back.

Done is better than perfect.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I hate to say that I haven’t spent any time in Miami though I’ve been near it multiple times during trips to Ft. Lauderdale and the Keys! I highly recommend driving into the Keys though especially to kayak at Curry Hammock State Park or snorkel at John Pennekamp State Park. Also, Everglades National Park is absolutely a must-see. There are plenty of short hikes along the road from the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center to the Flamingo Visitor Center. If you have multiple days then rent a bike in the Shark Valley area of the park too. Biscayne National Park is also right next to Miami. Book a boat tour, kayaking excursion, or snorkeling trip to get the most out of your time there! The park is 95% water after all.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband, parents, and family are 100% the reason I’ve been able to step out of my comfort zone and start my own business. My husband supported me leaving my job even when he didn’t quite understand the online business world. My parents always taught me that I am capable of achieving anything with hard work and determination. They are the reason I have the confidence that I’ll succeed. Plus I have a huge extended family and in-laws that show me nothing but support every day. I am beyond thankful for the people in my life. As for the business side of things, I would still be fumbling my way through this if it wasn’t for Jessie Festa’s Travel Blog Prosperity Community.

Website: https://stuckonthego.com/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/stuckonthego

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-cook-1a519886/

Twitter: www.twitter.com/stuckonthego

Facebook: www.facebook.com/stuckonthego

Other: Facebook Group (Travel the Southern States with Stuck On The Go): https://www.facebook.com/groups/382237099690899

Image Credits
Anna Cook of Stuck On The Go

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