What does it mean to lean into an adventurous life?  As you well know our lives aren’t scripted and at best, we only have minimal control.

In fact, the decisions you make, whether they are conscious or unconscious alter the trajectory and quality of life that you lead.  For me, growing up in poverty, surrounded by alcoholism and sexual abuse was the crucible that helped shape who I am today.  I’m proud of the person, and father that I’ve become.

Without these hardships and challenges, I know I would be a far different person that I am today.  From an early age it taught me become resilient, adaptable and hungry for a different type of life.  As I’ve matured I can see past the difficulties that my parents had to endure for me to gain these lessons.  They did the best they could under the circumstances and all that they had in front of them.

This essay isn’t about looking backwards but always looking positively forward.  I decided after my divorce that I would do everything in my power to lead and lean into an adventurous life no matter what.  Seemingly, every decision I’ve made since that time continues to push me down this exciting path.

Sometimes it can be easy to get caught up in being the victim in life, but I learned that you could change that soundtrack and create a life that you’ve always desired.  I realize it’s not easy but if you’re single minded and committed to your vision then you can make almost anything come to fruition.

So, what makes up an adventurous life?  Well, there a few important qualities that are, in my mind essential.  Firstly, you have a sense of curiosity.  Having a curious and open mindset ensures that you don’t get stuck in an endless cycle of sameness or stagnant routine.

Another important quality is courage.  Most of us, don’t enjoy stepping outside our comfort zone.  But having the courage to do it anyway, whether it be a big or small leap is irrelevant. It demonstrates that you are okay with the outcome irrespective of your fear.

Optimism and a positive mindset are equally important as they create an environment where you may not yet know what’s coming but you’re excited about the prospect of the unknown, while believing it will be something great.  This can be tricky as you have to have faith that things will turn out for the best even though you can’t see it just yet.  This form of positivity is essential!

I think playfulness is hugely underrated but also plays an important part, as you have to roll with whatever comes your way and be okay with it.  Sometimes laughing at your missteps is a great way of taking the pressure off and living in the moment.  This also taps into your creativity in that if you become stuck, your playful attitude and mindset often conjures up new ways of looking at a problem.

I like to think of these minor detours or setbacks as just another part of the overall adventure, but much of this comes back to your mindset…

How do you lean into an adventurous life?  Many people imagine that to live an adventurous life you need to be constantly engaged in big adventures – travelling overseas, climbing Mount Everest, or exploring the Amazon river basin…  Well, not all adventures are created equal and so therefore you have to embrace to concept of micro-adventures as a method to bring a new perspective to your life.

Actually, learning to lean into an adventurous life begins with the small and simple explorations.  It’s looking for and discovering the beauty of simplicity and all that goes with it.  Making the most of every day by keeping an open mind and follow your curiosity I’ve found works best for me.

For many of us life gets in the way and fills both our mind and days with endless, and sometimes mindless and repetitive tasks so it can be difficult to break free and take on a different mindset.   Then top this off with stresses about relationships, finances, family and jobs…

I get it, learning to lean into an adventurous life can be a challenge unto itself.  A big part of what enabled me to develop an open and enquiring mindset was when I began consciously using my camera. I know it sounds strange, but my DSLR (digital single-lens reflex) camera was a big part of me wanting to explore more.

Capturing candid moments via the lens of my camera enabled me to see beyond what was in the image.  It also helped me with my writing as I began to imagine the lives of the people within the photographs.  The more I began to explore this medium the more it roused my curiosity and before long I was craving exploring locally, nationally and internationally.

I was finding my adventurous life in an unexpected way, but one I have embraced for the past fifteen years now.  Thank goodness Judy also enjoys this way of life and is a fabulous accomplice to our shared adventures.

Until next week.

Ciao!

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