I’ve been thinking a lot about what happens when we actually give ourselves permission to step away from the routines that keep us comfortable. Right now, I’m on the road with my dogs and a van that’s more functional than fancy, and I’m calling this time my adult gap year (or period, lol). I may not have everything figured out, but I’m seeing what comes up when I put myself in new places and give myself space to grow. A “gap” experience is all about having the courage to NOT KNOW what’s next. And for making space for what nourishes you.
You know, it's funny what you start to think about when you finally peel yourself away from the day-to-day grind. Mostly, it’s just about giving myself space to breathe and seeing what bubbles up when I’m not constantly busy. I think this is why shaking up routine matters.
I’d love for you to join me on this Wise Walk to explore that very feeling. We'll explore the magic that happens when you shake things up, how to tune into those little sparks that give you life, and why it's more than okay to not have the next step all figured out. It seems like the best moments happen when we finally switch off autopilot and just let ourselves be.
Outside of becoming homeless, what are the ways you can change things up or bring in some gap year elements so you can immerse yourself in new experiences and perspectives?
Where in your life can you shake things up to gain a new experience and increase self-awareness?
What’s a routine that has been working for you, but you’re curious if there’s another avenue worth exploring?
Are you willing to step outside of that norm or structure you created to gain different perspectives, new real-world experiences, and then decide if you want to continue, enhance, or change before committing to a new path?
Are there areas in your life that you cherish but want to approach differently, especially with self-care practices you haven’t been consistent with?
How can you set yourself up to release what’s holding you back and take yourself on a new exploration to try things differently?
What is it you want to do with your time, what really matters to you, and are you willing to commit to making space for that?
Where can you carve out alone time so you can hear your own voice and emotions above everyone else’s?
What do you want to do with the information that surfaces when you slow down and listen to yourself?
Where in your life can you be open to receiving messages and self-awareness that are already inside of you?
How does it feel to imagine yourself excited about what might surface?
I’m really excited to pour my energy into the self-care practices and creative outlets that feel aligned right now, and to see what comes to life for me. And I’m so grateful that you’re here, walking this journey with me. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
I can’t wait for next Thursday’s Wise Walk. In the meantime, I’d love to hear your thoughts, ideas, or feedback from today’s conversation. Don’t forget to prioritize fun as you read the signs, direct your path, and get your Stride On!
In this episode:
[03:04] I realized that I had gotten into routines and habits that felt like I was on autopilot. When you're in these routines it's more difficult to gain new perspectives and experiences.
[04:09] When things are too consistent, I don't feel like I'm growing and expanding as much as I could. During this gap period I'm disconnecting from what I've known for a long time.
[05:29] The beauty of this period of newness is that we don't know what we don't know.
[06:39] I'm excited about bringing some of my favorite self-care routines on this trip.
[08:56] My van is functional with bins and bags of beautiful self-care items. I got very clear on what I'm going to make space for in the van.
[10:48] The biggest thing I'm making space for is my dogs. Nourishment is another big thing. Plus my self care items, and I'm holding space for my creativity.
[12:17] Podcast equipment is coming, so you get to hear all about my new adventures. These Wise Walks and you, my listeners, are so important to me!
[13:30] I also want to see what surfaces in this gap experience.
[15:17] Sometimes we can't hear our own thoughts, if we have too many things and too many well-intentioned people influencing us.
[17:24] I'm excited to invest time and energy in the nourishment and the self-care practices that feel aligned for me. And to hold space and invest in my own creativity and those outlets and see what comes to life.
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