It’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey

When you read this quote, one you’ve heard over and over, what comes to mind? Do you read it and think, “Yeah, I know that” or “Sure, makes sense” or “What-ever, sounds pretty idealistic”.

For me, I’ve read that quote and answered yes to all three thoughts at one point or another in my life. The challenge for all of us I believe though is to be in the present, to challenge ourselves with full life experiences, to relish them while we are doing them and to reflect back on them when we’ve hit our destination. Whether your destination is a hike like mine to the historic, spiritual place of Machu Picchu or a destination like taking control over your diagnosis of a brain abnormality the quote is quite poignant. For Outdoor Mindset and its members, the destination (the large one) is to take control, to understand, to share and to grow. Outdoor Mindset can be the springboard for making those connections with others who have experienced the journey you find yourself or your loved one or friend on right no.

I find myself reflecting back today on a recent trip to Peru. My wife Libby and I set out on a trek, a journey to visit Machu Picchu in Peru. In all the planning and pre-trip wonderment I found myself getting very excited for our arrival at this historic and majestic place. I built up a vision of the feelings I would have when we arrived. Feelings of accomplishment for having made the long journey, feelings of wonderment at how the Inca created such a massive, intricate and connected place with tools made only by hand and moved by man. All of those expectations of mine were met but one expectation that I was missing became the most important of the event. I had spent little time thinking about what the actual trek, the journey, would be like. This was actually a gift I think because as I reflect back on the trip as a whole; the experiences, the sites along the trail, the waking up to breakfast in our tent, the many ruins scattered along the 30+ mile trail, my amazing traveling partner (my wife) were the most rewarding of the entire event.

My hope in writing this is to share how my recent traveling experience started out with me focused on the destination; ready, waiting to be blown away, to be amazed and surprised upon reaching my destination. Now, looking back I fully realize that the experience and the fulfillment which I will remember for a long time came not so much from the destination but from the journey itself. I encourage you to seek to find the joys in your daily journey toward your life, your friends, better health, and a sense of control over your life and your diagnosis. I wish everyone the best and as a side note, I HIGHLY recommend a visit to Peru and a hike on the Inca trail. (my next blog will share the specifics of the amazing hike, the landscapes, people and history of the Inca Trail)