What Van-Life Taught Me About Leadership

It’s an unusual comparison, I know—but traveling the country in a camper van for 2 years taught me more about leadership than I ever expected.

At first, van-life was *very* uncomfortable. The simplest things became constant puzzles: where to camp, where to shower, weather conditions, WiFi signal, and general safety as a solo female traveler. Activities that were once comfort zones quickly blurred into danger zones, and my nervous system felt the impact.

As a yogi and meditator, I noticed right away: I was in a constant state of alert. But over time, I found my rhythm. There were apps for finding safe places to camp. I discovered van-life communities and began traveling with more experienced folks. I joined Planet Fitness for hot showers—which also meant I started working out more than ever before. Slowly, my nervous system settled, and true adventure unfolded.

That contrast—the shift from surviving to thriving—made me reflect on how many people are leading and working with nervous systems that never fully reset.

A recent study found that 82% of employees are at risk of burnout in 2025—a reflection of how unsustainable the demands of modern work and life have become.

When I’m overwhelmed, I have less access to creativity, patience, and emotionally intelligent communication. It’s not a mindset issue; it’s a nervous system issue.

Van-life taught me what it feels like to live in stretch and danger zones for extended periods—and how crucial it is to regularly return to peace.

Not complacency—rest.

Not stagnation—stability.

The kind of groundedness that allows your best ideas to surface.

We often shame the “comfort zone,” but I’ve learned to value it deeply. My clearest vision, creativity, and innovative ideas show up in quiet, comfortable moments—usually in nature, when I finally give myself permission to breathe.

Because true leadership isn’t about pushing through at all costs—it’s about knowing when to pause, restore, and return with clarity.

And I’ve learned that tending to my nervous system isn’t just self-kindness—it’s a radical act of leadership.

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Next up: What Farming In Hawaii Taught Me About Growing Healthy Companies

Hope to see you there.

Heather, Founder of A Project Called Life