Most people ask, “Where did you go on vacation?”
I usually pause before answering.
Because the truth is, I don’t really vacation.
Not in the traditional sense, anyway.
I don’t see my trips as escapes from real life or breaks from responsibility. I don’t pack my joy into one planned week and then return to “normal” like it never happened. For me, life doesn’t stop so I can vacation.
Life is the vacation.
And everything else is an adventure inside it.
Vacation vs. Adventure: A Small Shift That Changes Everything
A vacation mindset says:
- Life is something you need a break from
- Joy has to be scheduled
- Rest and wonder are rewards, not rhythms
An adventure mindset says:
- Life is something you get to engage with
- Curiosity is always available
- Ordinary days can still hold meaning
I stopped waiting for permission to enjoy my life.
Day trips count. Wandering counts. Pulling over because something caught my eye counts. Trying a hole-in-the-wall place just because you’re nearby counts.
None of that requires PTO or a plane ticket.
Why This Matters (Especially If You’re Tired)
When we treat joy like a vacation-only event, we unintentionally tell ourselves:
- “This season doesn’t deserve joy.”
- “I’ll rest later.”
- “I’ll live fully someday.”
That’s exhausting.
Seeing life as the vacation removes pressure. It replaces escape with engagement. It invites presence instead of perfection.
And honestly? It makes travel a lot more accessible ~ financially, emotionally, and mentally.
Practical Ways to Live the “Life Is the Vacation” Mindset
Here are a few simple ways I practice this, even on busy or low-energy weeks:
1. Redefine What “Counts”
You don’t need a long itinerary.
A two-hour drive, a museum stop, a new coffee shop, or a scenic back road still counts.
2. Build Micro-Adventures
Instead of waiting for the “right time,” create small moments:
- A spontaneous afternoon drive
- A local event you’ve never attended
- A place you always pass but never stop
3. Release the Pressure to Perform
Not every adventure needs photos, reels, or a perfect recap. Some moments are just for you.
4. Let Curiosity Lead
If something sparks interest, follow it, even briefly. Curiosity is one of the most underused travel tools.
Tips & Tricks for Everyday Adventures
- Keep a running list of nearby places you want to explore so you’re never starting from scratch
- Pack a “day adventure kit” in your car (water, snacks, notebook, charger)
- Travel light mentally ~ plans can change, and that’s part of the fun
- Go solo sometimes ~ independence builds confidence and clarity
You don’t need to go far to go deep.
Why Wander With Me Exists
Wander With Me isn’t about luxury trips or constant travel.
It’s about seeing life differently, and learning how to move through it with curiosity, courage, and openness.
I believe travel doesn’t have to be rare to be meaningful.
It just has to be intentional.
Drop a comment below, and tell me your recent (or not so recent) favorite “living adventure” was
Want to Travel More Without Waiting on “Someday”?
If this mindset resonates with you and you’ve ever thought, “I wish I could do this more,” there’s a practical path forward.
I’m a travel agent and travel marketing rep, if you’ve been curious about:
- Discounted travel
- Flexible side income
- Or building a life that supports adventure instead of postponing it
👉 Let’s talk. I’d love to walk you through what that could look like for you.
Wonder With Me ✨
What if you stopped waiting for life to slow down before you enjoyed it?
What if today … right where you are … counted?
Life doesn’t have to be escaped to be explored.
Wonder with me.
Wander with Me 
Leave a comment