Transformation starts with taking an honest look at what is and isn’t working in your life. Only from there can you explore ideas of how the situation can be improved. Being away from your usual life, like in travel, is the perfect place from where to make this type of analysis.

As we can’t control many aspects that are outside of ourselves (we can’t control others, the weather, politicians’ behaviors, what will happen during the cycle trip, or most of what goes on in life), we focus our attention on what we can control, ourselves. We can choose everything about our inner context, like our perceptions, where we let our attention sit, the way we relate to our thoughts and feelings and how we co-exist with our ego. As we travel, we are given a beautiful opportunity to get better acquainted with these different elements of our inner self and transformations start to happen.

To find greater joy, meaning and more fulfillment in life, we don’t have to radically change our lives, but instead, change the way we look at our lives and become more present with every moment we experience.

On a bike trip that’s easier than in “regular life”. That’s why it’s such an ideal place to start.

Be present with the drastic landscape you see, notice the smells and tastes with more depth and focus. Become aware of what you feel as you are brought to a local organization or as you visit a ancient sight. What thoughts appear as you hear them share their stories? What emotions arise from those thoughts? Tune into the conversations you are having with the other travelers on the trip. Focus in on what they say, be present with them.

These small habits are what create life changing transformations.  Bring them with you as you embark on your next trip.