Keeping an Open Mind-New York Style.

Another way you can exercise a closed mind is to take a trip. It doesn’t have to be a weeklong trip to a place 3000 miles away, even a day trip can work. I suggest a trip because after spending 7 whole days in New York, I feel as though I have made even more progress in keeping an open mind. Its not as easy as one would think to keep an open mind in an unknown place. In fact, I think it’s harder. When so much is unknown it can be really easy to find things that are familiar to cling to—especially in a city like New York. When you are in an unfamiliar place, the important thing to remember is dive in. Have fun and try new things.

That is exactly what I did when I got to New York. It was by no means easy or comfortable in such a big city, but I still opted to go for it. I explored the city alone when my friend was working and I ate places I normally would never eat. Let me tell you, New York has everything, especially food. And every place is fantastic because if you serve bad food in a big and busy city, you’re done for. I also learned all about the subway systems—and for someone who grew up in a place with virtually no public transportation, I’d like to think of it as an accomplishment!

I won’t go into too much detail about my trip because I’ll be blogging about it soon, but I did want to mention it because I think trips can be vital in keeping our minds open. Trips allow us to escape from the normalcy of our routines and let loose a little—assuming that we break out of our comfort zones when we travel. Each time we travel we are reminded that life exists (and thrives) outside of what we know. Traveling helps us see that our way of doing things is not the only way there is, which can help us develop an understanding for the different.

I would encourage everyone to take a trip. If you don’t have any vacation time coming up, even a weekend trip or a day trip can work. When you go on your trip, make sure to avoid attachments with the familiar. Don’t eat Mexican food if you are always eating Mexican food at home. Look for activities you would never normally do and don’t be afraid loosen the purse strings some. I know most people aren’t doing as well as they could be financially, but spending on vacation can be liberating. Most of us spend our time at home looking for great deals or only treating ourselves to something on special occasions. So, if you can, spend a little money on yourself—and enjoy it!!

Happy travels!

Peace and Love,

Trin