Every time someone utters this phrase, it makes me smile. The supposition here that going home is some sort of defeat is the complete antithesis of who I am.

Let me rewind a little. If you know me, you will know that I am not one for crowds. I’m a strange mix of introvert and extrovert, social and anti-social. I crave social outings and look forward to them, but when the moment arrives, especially if it’s a room full of strangers, I can’t wait to get home.

I am very selective when it comes to people. I don’t waste my energy or their time by investing in people who don’t get me. But a close set of a few who do, I cherish. I look forward to meeting them. I plan for it. I throw parties, I make plans to go out. And when the clock strikes 10, I can’t wait to get home.

Unlike most people, I spend a lot of time at home. Working from home has its advantages and disadvantages, but I love the flexibility it gives me. I’m fabulous with scheduling and planning, and usually am self-motivated. The perfect candidate for remote working. It allows us the lifestyle we have chosen for ourselves, full of adventures and exploration. It allows my husband a busy career, and our daughter the reassurance of my constant presence. And it saves me from making small talk or driving home in migraine-inducing traffic after a long day (though I’ve done plenty of that too). All the while, thinking – I can’t wait to get home.

My home is my oasis. Tiny corners that I have conceptualised and brought to life. A balcony overflowing with blooms for me to watch the rain; a study where I can leave the world behind and concentrate. A room that I like to retreat to. A travel globe with my journeys pinned in a hidden corner, photographs of our life together scattered all around. My home is my happy place, my Hygge. My home is where I’d rather be. If the world was ending, that’s where you’d find me.

So, when someone says go big or go home, it’s a no-brainer for me. As much as I’d like to go big (and probably will, in my own time), for now I’ll go home, thank you very much 😉