Explore Experiences is an idea I’ve been playing around with since college. I’m not sure where it originates from, but I have a hunger for adventure. I get bored easily with day to day life. I need to learn more and also do more. The typical listings for things to do, like going to a new restaurant or visiting local attractions/museums/parks are all well and good, but I have a desire to seek out more unique experiences. My husband taking me to a surprise capoeira (dance fighting) class was on point along with skydiving, but how can I consistently get that kind of excitement or novelty? My idea is that I’d need to create a network of friends that have unique, interesting passions. How can I connect with a diverse group of people and foster relationships where they would feel comfortable sharing their eccentric interests?
Now, before I get ahead of myself, novelty is not the only component to optimize in life. After all, there are many factors to consider when exploring how to improve your quality of life. However, I’ve listened to a lot of Tony Robbins’ content and he explains the 6 human needs that drive every decision you make. For me, variety, growth and connection rank highest. If some of your top needs are not being met, it could have a negative influence on your overall well being. Click the below link for one of Tony’s article’s on the subject: DISCOVER THE 6 HUMAN NEEDS
Back to the problem at hand – how can I create more of these sorts of experiences for myself? A bucket list would assume that I already know what I’m after, which isn’t necessarily true. I’m open to a wide range of possibilities and accept that I probably wouldn’t be able to imagine the best ideas ahead of time. I’ve had the idea to build a platform for individuals to connect with each other to share interests at this sort of personal level and not at a large event level. That way it wouldn’t only be me benefiting. However, sometimes it’s best to start small. I’m not quite sure how to round up enough individuals that would be on board for something like this. For now, I’m resolving to simply start up more conversations with strangers. We could all use a bit more playfulness, don’t you think?
It may even be that the relationships fostered actually end up being more valuable than any experience. Listen in for yourself to Robert Waldinger in his Ted talk where he describes the results of a 75+ year-old study about the source of true happiness and satisfaction. What Makes a Good Life – Lessons from the Longest Study on Happiness
I want to play, lean into relationships, and try something new frequently! I’m also focused on developing healthy habits including mindfulness – being fully present and observing my own thoughts and feelings. Headspace is helping me in this realm.
That’s all for now! All the best! Go out and explore experiences in your own way!