As you may know, I’m always on the hunt for ways to improve my general happiness. I often read articles online about “things that make us happy” or “12 ways to be happier.” Most of the advice is pretty standard: exercise, eat real food, be kind to others, get more sleep, etc. However, there is one thing that often shows up on such lists that always surprises me, but makes total sense. That tip is to plan a vacation. Here’s the kicker though. It’s not about actually going on the vacation (although that is super awesome if you can), but the act of planning for a vacation that has been shown to improve your overall happiness. Pretty cool, right?
Now, I know this might sound a little crazy, but I totally believe it. Last year my friends and I went on a cruise. To get everything in order, we had to book our cruise almost 8 months in advance. And let me tell you, the time leading up the the cruise was almost as exciting and fun-filled as the actual cruise. We talked about the trip constantly and went shopping for clothes. In the weeks prior to the cruise, I ate better, lost 20+ pounds, and was probably in the best shape of my life.
C’mon friends, tell me that face doesn’t say pure bliss!
For me, when it comes to accomplishing a specific goal, it’s all in my head. So if I believe something strong enough, want something bad enough, or convince myself something is possible – there’s a good chance it’s going to happen.
Over the past two years, mostly because of my new career as a full-time blogger, I’ve had the opportunity to travel more than ever before in my life. This summer, for various reasons, I decided to avoid personal and work-related travel. I had one big trip planned with my family to Ireland, and that was all I wanted to do. Typically, I love summers in my hometown. However, now that September has arrived and summer is basically over, I realize I made a mistake. I wish I had traveled more. I miss it. And as much as I love central Pennsylvania, there are things that I just cannot get here. (And I’m not only talking about Starbucks, Target, and relativity nice weather.)
So, even though I do have a few trips on the horizon, I decided to start a new Pinterest board called “i TRAVEL.” I’m actually surprised that I hadn’t already created such a board. As I mentioned when putting together my Wanderlust Gallery Wall, I’ve teamed up with Carnival Cruise Lines to talk a bit about travel, so having a travel-related pinboard will come in handy.
And while I may not be able to hit all of the destinations on my board, you can bet I will certainly have fun planning and dreaming. I also intend to save my money (i.e., stop buying gold and brass home decor accessories – I think I have enough), and plan wisely for the vacations I want to take. It’s been said (by Oprah herself) that people rarely regret spending money on a vacation. You’re not just paying for a trip, you’re paying for an experience and a lifetime of memories.
If you don’t have a vacation in the works, start planning one and see where it takes you. If you need a little inspiration, swing by my newest Pinterest board. Or if you want to set sail on the seas, check out the amazing locations a Carnival cruise ship can take you to.
What are you’re thoughts on travel? What is your dream destination?
This post was created as part of my collaboration with Carnival. As always, all of the opinions, thoughts, and ideas in this post are my own.
