Traveling Man
Some days, I overthink everything I want to do—those big dreams and lingering ideas that make me feel like time is running out before I can achieve them. But then, I pause and remind myself of what I’ve already done. I tell myself, You’ve accomplished so much already. Why focus on what’s left when you can celebrate how far you’ve come?
Why is it so easy to dwell on what’s unfinished and so hard to pat ourselves on the back for what we’ve achieved? I want to keep adding to my life’s list, but in the process, I need to remember the miles I’ve already traveled. It’s in those moments of reflection that I find the energy to keep moving forward.
I’ve realized I want my journey to take the scenic route—beautiful or messy, breathtaking or challenging. Every view, every twist, and turn holds lessons. And the most meaningful ones? They’ve taught me to embrace imperfection, which might just be the most beautiful part of this ride.
“Life is a journey that must be traveled no matter how bad the road and accommodations.”
Oliver Goldsmith
The choices we make shape the journey. Along the way, I’ve pulled into plenty of rest stops—those reflective pauses where the little voice in my head quietly asks if I’m sure I’m headed in the right direction. And of course, being a man, I’d never stop to ask for directions. (We can laugh at that, right?)
Mistakes, though? They’ve been some of my greatest teachers. They’ve drawn the roadmap I rely on today, guiding me to better decisions and helping me course-correct. Each wrong turn has been a touchpoint for growth, nudging me to pause, reflect, and keep going as a traveling man.
“It’s your road and yours alone, others may walk it with you, but no one can walk it for you.”
Rumi
So, I’ll keep checking things off my list—but I’ll also keep adding to it. And here’s the reminder I’m writing at the top: Never forget how far you’ve already come.
No matter the scenery, I want to leave behind a trail I’m proud of. I want to keep traveling, savoring this journey, and letting the light shine on all the views that have brought me here.
“Remember where you have been and know where you are going. Life is not a race, but a journey to be savored each step of the way.”
Nikita Koloff
Talk soon…
G