How To Get Off Your Butt and Out Into The World
It's time to put the doubt and fear aside. Let's figure out how to get you to that place you've always dreamed of.
1. Figure out your "why."
Many people skip over this very helpful question. Yes, you know what you want to do and when you want to do it (Right now, huh), but figuring out your "why" may be even more important. Your "why" is what gets you back on track when the doubt starts to creep in. On the days you feel defeated, like you'll never accomplish your dreams, remember why you have these dreams to begin with. Maybe you want to make a difference in the world. Maybe you know you have more to offer then what you've been doing in your job or career. Maybe you know that traveling may be the thing you need to become who you always knew you could be. Whatever your "why" is, figure it out and never EVER forget it. Use it and let it be your guiding light.
2. Dig a little deeper.
You may be just scratching the surface. You know you have what it takes to change your life but for some reason you haven't made any moves yet. Make sure you're asking yourself the right questions. And make sure you're being completely honest with yourself. Are you really saving as much money as you need to book your flight? Are you afraid of failing? Do you worry you won't be able to handle being away from the comforts of home in a new, foreign environment where no one knows your name? Think, really think, about why you haven't gone to volunteer abroad or teach English or reach that mountaintop like you've always dreamed of.
3. Watch an inspiring adventure movie.
I'm a big time movie fanatic. Love them. And I use them to help motivate me, inspire me, and feel a little bit deeper. Movies show us the possibilities that await us if we take a chance in life. Movies like The Secret Life of Walter Mitty and Eat, Pray, Love struck chords with me in ways that pushed me to move forward with my travel plans. They can excite you and leave you wanting more for yourself. Indulge yourself and let yourself be moved to get off the couch and out into the world!
4. Come up with a solid plan.
There's nothing like an airtight plan to get things in motion. Consider where you are now, and where you're trying to get to. Do you live in New York, but you'd like to travel to Uganda? Okay cool. So what's the deal ... do you want to volunteer or tour instead? Or both? We all already know money is a factor, but touring may be a bit more costly, especially if you're going on safaris. Consider the things you'd like to do on your trip, then do some research of prices. How much can you start saving and how long will it take to have your budget in tact? Once you figure out the money part, think about time. If you're working, how much time can you get off? Maybe you'll save some of those sick days you were getting ready to use and add them on to your vacation days. Planning is super important when it comes to long-distance journeys, but just remember to always leave yourself a little wiggle room. Any seasoned traveler will tell you, nothing ever goes as planned!
5. Get a travel buddy.
It's like how people need gym partners to stay motivated and hold them accountable ... a travel companion can do the same. You know you won't have to navigate this exciting but daunting adventure all on your own. Knowing you'll have someone there to experience life in the unknown with should keep you on track, especially when you two start talking about all the crazy, amazing things you're looking forward to. A travel buddy has your back and will hold your hand when you miss a step, so make sure it's someone who you trust.
Just remember, the timing will never be perfect. So get out there and live life through a different lens. Own your life and live it to the fullest!
What do you think it takes to finally take that trip of your dreams?