Does the Journey Matters More Than the Destination?
I had a 4-hour bus trip planned this weekend from Boston to New York. The trip is a fairly regular one that I take every 2–3 weeks. But as I was booking the ticket and planning what I’ll be able to do on the bus, I realized that I’m looking forward to the journey as much — if not more — than the actual destination itself. There’s a special feeling when you pack your backpack, close the door to your house and set off — whether for just a day or a month.
It’s been true in many instances before. When I had a chance to live in 3 countries and visit 12 over the course of 8 months, I found immense satisfaction in planning the journey and the actual travel between destinations. Getting to the location was the goal at the end and gave meaning to the journey, but it was always bittersweet when I actually got there, as it meant that the journey itself was over. Before long, I was already planning the next leg of the trip.
I think I’m not the only one who feels this way. Chris Guillebeau, man who decided to travel to every country in the world within 5 years and the author of Art of Non-Conformity blog, reports that for him, he enjoys travel just for traveling sake. The audacious plan to visit every country justifies it, but he finds the actual process as enjoyable as the destinations. There is certainly a feeling of freedom and adventure that you feel right before and during the journey.
So, for the next trip or vacation, perhaps the journey should be viewed as an integral part of the trip — rather than an obstacle than stands between you and the destination?
Originally published at www.quarterlifemusings.com.
