For most people, living an orderly and predictable life is the goal. We shun chaos in favor of comfort. We avoid change unless it’s a change WE put into motion. But in terms of our learning, growth and resilience, this might not be the best approach.
I normally drive the same route from my home to my office each day. It’s the most direct and fastest way. The other day, I decided to go a completely new route, without the use of the onboard navigation system. I just drove, heading off in the opposite direction.
On the drive, I passed by homes with beautiful landscaping and watched a mama duck cross the road with her six ducklings. I listened to church bells ring, noticing a red fox running through the woods. I inhaled the strong scent of lilac while riding down a quiet neighborhood street.
After driving around for twenty-five minutes, I decided I was pretty lost and asked a pedestrian where the main thoroughfare was. The young man laughed at my questions because he had only moved into the area a few days prior and wasn’t sure. We both laughed. As I drove away in search of the way out of that neighborhood, I came to a stop sign, where I saw young children chasing a soccer ball. Screams of laughter filled the air.
I finally made my way to familiar territory and finished my journey to work.
Getting lost has its benefits.
Don’t be afraid to test out new ways of thinking and doing. You already know what you know and getting outside of your comfort zone is not a bad place to be. It’s filled with the possibility of new knowledge, new understanding and new ideas. This is what makes life interesting and fulfilling.
You can “get lost” in all sorts of ways….let me know what you think.
