I’m addicted to getting lost.
Walking unknown paths, not having map, getting scared of unfamiliar streets.
Some people would say I am crazy. And maybe that is why I keep most of my lost adventures secret from my loved ones. Traveling alone as twenty something girl looking all lost in country you have never visited before. Crazy? For me not.
It’s living. Having the feeling of something. Finding new places you would have never seen if you hadn’t taken the step towards scary and uncertain. Meeting people you would have never believed to know and finding unexpected friendships.
I used to live safely and never take the risks. My life was miserable and I didn’t know what was wrong with me. One quote changed my life. A couple of sentences that I chant in my head if I feel like going back to my safe but grim life.
“You know, sometimes all you need is twenty seconds of insane courage. Just literally twenty seconds of embarrassing bravery. And I promise you, something great will come of it.” -Benjamin Mee, We Bought a Zoo
It took me twenty seconds to book my first three months solo trip to Japan.It took me twenty seconds to say yes when I was asked to come and visit people I didn’t even know properly to France. Twenty seconds insane courage to talk with stranger in train. (Later on because of her I got to see the local side of Tokyo.)
So when I go and don’t look my map. When I don’t know where I am or where should I go. I count the twenty seconds and follow the first idea coming to my mind. And then I go. Maybe I open the door of closest shop or take the small dirty looking back alley. I may be stupid doing it. I may even end up being scared for my life and safety. But never do I regret those twenty seconds.
I hope you will remember this later on in your life. Some decisions don’t need thorough thinking but bravery. Now ask yourself what you want to do with your life. 20 seconds what comes to your mind? For me it’s to travel and if you are reading my blog I bet for you it’s too. So another 20 seconds, don’t think too much and make your life your own.
. . .
I have been busy lately and got thrown to totally new environment without warning. So I thought this text was fitting one for me to publish now. It has been on my drafts folder for ages and I just haven’t found the right time for it to appear in my blog. No I needed reminder of that 20 seconds. It really helps.
With love,
You seem to be a kindred spirit. Your style of travel is my style of travel and it’s insanely encouraging to find someone who does the same thing. Keep rocking.
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It’s always nice to get know more same minded people! Keep travelling and being awesome! And thanks for commenting 🙂
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Beautiful writing. Your blog is such an enjoyable read. Getting lost is one of life’s greatest gift because every moment gives us learning experience and another lesson learned. thanks for sharing your thoughts on this. Love it.
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Thank you, you are so kind! I’m always happy to hear that I’m not the only one loving being lost. Getting lost has really taught me some great lessons. 🙂
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You’re welcome.Viivi. Yes, we got lost and find ourselves or discovered something about ourselves, always lessons learned. Have a great weekend.
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I hope you have great weekend too!
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I love getting lost!!! Well I guess I don’t love getting lost, but I love the adventure that getting lost brings. The people I get to meet, the sights I get to see, none of that happens when you’re walking around glued to a lonely planet.Love this post and your blog ❤
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Good I’m not the only one loving the adventures happening when I get lost! Thank you so much for your kind words and I hope safe travels for you. 🙂
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This is really great share! Thanks. Wandering new places has always been scary and best thing for me. But well I’m not sure if this 20 seconds courage will help me out with my current fear……. I will be traveling to Manila next week for small official trip but due to recent zika outbreak I’m kind scared but excited at the same time. Though the risk is very small but should I restrict myself or go out and wander like we travelers do…?! 😦
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Thank you! I hope you will have good trip despite the bad luck you have with timing 😦 I really don’t know what you should do nor what would I do in your place… Though I think Manila would be amazing place to visit.
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Thank you! 🙂
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I love this! I am going travelling by myself for 14 months in a few weeks, so I will definitely keep this post in mind
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This is really good thing remember when traveling but remember to keep yourself safe. I’m so jealous of you, but I hope you have amazing time traveling the world! Safe travels for you 🙂
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This is so inspirational. Thanks for sharing! 🙂
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Thank you! I’m glad you find it inspiring 🙂
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” Not all who wander are lost” J. R. R. Tolkien. Good luck on your journey! Enjoy and be safe!
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I love that quote! It really is true. Safe travels for you too 🙂
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