Planning an itinerary usually goes hand-in-hand with going on a trip, and as someone who used to like sticking to plans, I often got frustrated when things don't go as planned. As I got older, I realized that the fun is in the mystery or the unexpected. So I learned to go along the ride and see where it takes me. And I have been able to enjoy wonderful adventures stress-free because of it. Research has also found that the element of surprise is actually beneficial to our overall wellbeing.
This, of course, not only applies to traveling, although having a great, big adventure filled with unexpected twists and turns can definitely be stressful at times, but it actually makes it all the more worthwhile and memorable. We can learn to live more freely by not being confined to what feels comfortable for us. And studies have shown that surprises or unexpected events in our lives can improve happiness, relationships, mental health, work, and more.
Of course, there are certain surprises that may be too much for us to handle, but I think as long as we are able to roll with the punches, we can get out of whatever sticky situation or circumstance we find ourselves in, and learn much from it as well. That is what Dennis Lewon has discovered in his adventures, and continues to live by as well. So, as the saying goes, live a little, and you might find something great from the surprises that await you.
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