Ah, summer vacation! I look forward to that wonderful vision of relaxation and rest that we’ve grown to associate with summer vacation. But sometimes what I call “the travel genie” doesn’t have the same idea.
In fact, most of the time, something goes haywire in the little details that it takes to get from point A to point B these days, and you arrive frustrated, frazzled and wishing you’d never left the security of your home!
Let’s face it, traveling in any form, whether it’s in an airplane, rental car, bus, train or your own vehicle, can be full of stress.
I’ve just returned from a trip to my family home in the remote northern Adirondacks, combined with a high school reunion in NJ, and the travel details were daunting, and the road time could have been exhausting. But I chose to begin each leg of the journey committed to enjoying and exploring my new experiences and creating a beautiful day.
So when I read this article by Christine Kane this morning, I just had to share it with you. Once again, she has written exactly what I was preparing to say. Use these simple tips and you’ll be amazed how happy your travels can be!
Business or Pleasure? The Traveler’s Guide to Unwavering Happiness
by Christine Kane
When you travel, much of your time is spent reacting. Those of us who travel a lot in our business know this all too well.
“Annoying Thing A” happens. “Business Traveler B” decides what to do.
Some days are a constant impetus/response pattern. Some of us get good at it. Some of us pride ourselves on our inner peace in spite of Annoying Things A, B and C. But even if we learn how to react well, we’re still reacting!
That’s why your choice of how to use your non-reacting time is a key to unwavering happiness. You must practice proactivity when you can.
Being proactive (or CREATIVE) renews your relationship to your own power. It makes you happier. So, here are 10 Proactive (or CREATIVE) tips for ANY traveler seeking unwavering happiness…
Tip #1 – Simple Self-Care
No, I won’t tell you to go to a spa in your spare time.
However, I will tell you to sleep when you’re tired. To pull off at the next exit when you have to pee instead of making yourself hold it. To allow extra time to get places.
Travel takes energy. And when people don’t practice self-care in healthy ways, they reach for it in unhealthy ways. They eat hub-cap-sized plates of pasta and grease, claiming they “deserve it.” They drink alcohol. They watch TV to numb out.
This isn’t self-care. This is self-medicating. One is pro-active. The other is reactive.
Tip #2 – Discover Audiobooks
Many years ago, I decided to turn my vehicle into a “school.” I started listening to books on business, coaching, and spirituality. Not only do I learn a lot, but it makes a huge difference in how I show up to my destination.
Tip #3 – Use Intention
Before any new segment of travel (getting on a plane, going to sleep) set an intention for your travel. You’ll be surprised how your intention determines your outcomes.
Tip #4 – Make Mantra
Create a simple affirmation. Say it often. Say it when you’re waiting in line. Say it when the plane gets delayed. Use it to center yourself. Challenge yourself to say it a thousand times in one day.
Tip #5 – Board the Plane Last
When the gate agent calls the Zones, let everyone else trip over each other so they can then stand in the hot jetway punching their cell phones.
Give peace a chance. Wait until the final boarding call. Plus, if there’s an empty row, you can switch your seat because you know you’re the last one on!
Tip #6 – Work Out
Nothing maintains your mood like a great heart-thumping’ work-out! Wake up a little earlier, or find the hotel gym after you check into your room. This practice will make all the difference in how well you apply these other tips!
Tip #7 – Get Help
I used to lug around two guitars, a suitcase, and my computer bag. I’d pride myself on my strength and stamina.
Now, I pride myself on swiping my credit card through the card vending machines next to baggage claim! I’m not into struggle anymore.
Get help, and tip people well. The extra $50 you might spend costs less than a visit to the chiropractor when you get home!
Tip #8 – Wash Off Your Travel
If I have the opportunity, I always take a shower after I fly. I call it “washing off the travel.” If nothing else, at least shower before you climb into bed. Try not to sleep with your travel still on you.
Tip #9 – Forgive Unexpected Expenses
You rush to the airport in your rental car after the conference. There’s no time to fill the tank. You end up paying $45 for a teaspoon of gas at the Hertz desk. Argh!
Travel expenses like this can make you crazy. You can spend the day beating yourself up or criticizing the world for its unfair policies.
Don’t waste your precious creative energy!
Travel is filled with lots of unexpected expenses. Your money will get spent because of A) stupid things you did, B) unforeseen situations or C) the fine print. Do yourself a big favor. Breathe and let it go because A) you’re traveling, B) you’re wealthy, and C) you’re worth it.
Tip #10 – Think Ritual
A business trip is not the time to start a new diet or yoga practice.
You can, however, keep small daily rituals. Write in your gratitude journal, even if you feel lonely or tired. Wake up 15 minutes early and remind yourself of your intentions for the day. Before you rush to your laptop and begin reacting, take time to create the day.
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Christine Kane is the Mentor to Women Who are Changing the World. She helps women uplevel their lives, their businesses, and their success. Her weekly LiveCreative eZine goes out to over 12,000 subscribers. If you are ready to take your life and your world to the next level, you can sign up for an F.R.E.E. subscription at http://bit.ly/CKaneFreeCD.