Sometimes we forget the treasures that home base can provide, or we feel like we’ve seen it all. Most people are afraid to pretend to be a tourist in their own town.
When we lack gratitude for the place we call home, we lose perspective and appreciation for the little things. You and I may have something in common: we don’t have unlimited finances, or the time to just pick up and fly to an exotic destination.
Our only free time may be weekends, and our “fun money” is just the cash that’s left over after paying bills.
But we can control the fun we have at home! Here are a few rules to follow when trying to unleash your inner Travel Beast:
Pick a Direction:
Find what you like to do best when you travel. Perhaps you love:
- Historic sites
- Hiking
- Shopping / Thrifting
- Art
- Music
- Other Cultural Pursuits
- Local Gems or
- Food
Discover Something New:
Living in a city, it’s easier to find new things to explore. Especially with the changing of seasons. But not everyone lives in a city the size and scope of New York. I remember that, when I lived in a small town – it seemed that the only surprises I could find were in the lovely woods. City or country – don’t be afraid to venture out! Take a mini road trip – drive down the road, discover some local towns or people.
What, When, How, Why:
Knowing what you want and what you need is very important. According to Dr. Bill Hettler, there are five things human beings need to feel fulfilled.* He says we need physical, social, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual wellness.
It helps me to write out what I’ve done in the past to figure out what I need next: i.e., if i’ve been reading a book, I’m getting my intellect on. Last night I watched a movie that got my emotional state working. That that indicates that I should go on a bike ride; invite a friend over and maybe find time to meditate. Or, since I’m feeling adventurous, perhaps I’ll invite a friend to walk by the lake and maybe swim. I can also meditate by the water. Your happiness is your job, so make sure you’re fulfilling all five of these needs, ideally, everyday.
The little one is for backpacking when I don’t have much room.Keep a Journal:
At minimum, you have some amazing memories to look back on later. At best, it’ll keep you present, engaged, and grateful.
I made a bucket list a few years ago, to which I keep adding. I cross items off after I’ve accomplished them. The list keeps me working hard to go more places, but it’s also fun to add local things to the list. Also, the psychology of crossing things off of lists builds momentum for you to do more. Hence, with intentional wandering, the more you cross off, the more your eyes are opened to. This practice helps you teach yourself to be more grateful, and attuned to natural beauty away from life’s worries and stresses.
Writing is the reason I started blogging: it’s brought a lot of joy into my life. Travel and adventure keep me creative and when I am exploring, then creating – I am unstoppable.
The writing is just for my own satisfaction, but it gives me a different perspective. It’s one thing to look back at a picture and get a visual; it’s another to re-read your own words and ponder what you wrote.
Keep an Open Mind:
Sometimes our adventures aren’t as luxurious as those of our favorite Instagrammers, and that’s okay! I don’t have unlimited finances to go skydiving or swimming with sharks, but sometimes I have just as much fun walking around a quaint town, dropping into shops and picking the brains of locals about the hidden gems of the town.
Once I stopped in a quirky art shop and learned of a nearby waterfall that was the area’s best-kept secret, and ended my afternoon in absolute heaven. Just make sure if you do end up just walking from street-to-street: keep your eyes up, and try to appreciate what’s immediately around you. Take pictures, yes – but spend more time with your eyes than with your lens.
Keep Your Home Clean:
Right now you’re probably thinking, “What does this have to do with traveling?”
#1: When your house is pristine, you don’t have to use your weekend time, on cleaning for hours-on-end.
#2: After your escapades, you’ll always have a nice clean place to which to return..
My home is my sanctuary. It’s incredibly important to feel at peace in your home, especially when you have a variety of other things running through your mind. A clean home is the best escape. My goal is to keep my apartment looking like a hotel: I keep it simple, classy – yet very comfortable. When in doubt, plants always make me feel more relaxed.
Have Fun!
Whether you bring a friend or want some solitude, enjoy the moment. Breathe in the fresh air; feel the breeze on your skin; smell the aroma of freedom and touch your own life. If you’re having a hard time getting perspective, I challenge you to sit in nature for 10 minutes, with your eyes closed. Focus only on that moment. This will give you the refresher you need.
I hope this was helpful to all travel lovers and those who dream of life on the road. Please leave comments and let me know what you thought and what adventures you’ve created! You can also see more of my journeys on my Instagram, Queerytraveler !
- * (https://www.alive.com/health/seven-dimensions-of-wellness/)
- Want to take the wellness quiz? (https://uca.edu/wellness/dimensions-of-wellness/)
