Let Adventure Into Your Life
Photo Credit: Connor Wilkinson Los Glaciares National Park in Patagonia
Earlier on in my adult life, I seemed to thrive on adventure. I was always going here and there, pushing myself physically and loving the challenges. But, after having kids and more senior roles at work, adventure became about doing the best I could each day to keep all the balls up in the air! And, if I am being honest here, my carefree attitude in life became more about being a responsible adult.
Priorities change throughout the different stages of our lives. But, when I was recently talking to one of my clients about his adventures in Patagonia, Argentina, it lit a spark within me.
First of all, now I am keen to go to Patagonia! But my deeper yearning for more adventure is likely connected to a desire to explore new things and places in a way that incorporates a mix of physical exercise with relaxation and to feel joy. There is a part of the ‘old me,’ that is still in there, and wants to connect with where I am at now.
I know sometimes when we are caught in the busyness of day-to-day life, it feels as if adventures like Patagonia are a far away bucket list item. But, I have also learned that each moment of our lives is so precious and we are not always guaranteed a long lifetime here on Earth.
This past year, I bought a journal in which I have planned adventures I want to take, God willing, in my lifetime. Some adventures I plan to take with my daughters, my Mom, family, friends, and some will be by myself.
I have created timeframes for when I want to go to these places and do these things. Think of it like a bucket list with timelines! But, I also understand that life happens and can change all of our plans.
I also know that travel is becoming increasingly expensive. For some, that is not a worry. But, for others, it may be a limiting factor. Don’t let that stop you from inviting more adventure into your life.
When you think about adventure, what comes to mind for you? How can you fit more of that into your life now?
Vacations are fabulous, but for most of us, they only happen a few times a year. I want more adventure in my everyday life. I don’t want to live for only my vacation time. What are the mini adventures you could plan?
I challenge you to create a list of adventures for yourself. List some that are local things you can do on a regular basis. It might be something like signing up for a tennis clinic, horseback riding, or volunteering for a local charity. It could be to start hiking or even join a church. Only you can define what adventure looks like for you. I want you to also list a few bigger adventures. Now, plan timelines. When are these things going to happen? Hint: go for sooner versus later!
When we get busy, our focus becomes narrow and our stress levels get higher. We start to squeeze out things like adventure. Ironically, these are the times in life when we could likely most benefit from experiencing some adventure. Don’t put off living your life to the fullest for a future point in time. This is the good stuff. Right now. Dive in and let the adventures unfold!
