May and June were more intense than usual. 21 flights, 29 cities, and flying 2-4 times a week back-and-forth between the bands. I landed in Denver for the Colorado Irish Fest and breathed a big sigh of relief. This is my 4th year at the festival, and it’s come to feel like a home for many reasons. I have several wonderful “Road Moms” here who always have sparkling water and treats waiting for me, and I get to see lots of familiar faces in our long-time friends and fans. More than anything, it’s a place I get to experience frequently enough that I know what to expect. I know what the hotel is like, my favorite trail routes, what the hospitality tent will offer, and the name of my driver. (Myron is from Cleveland, and every year we bond about being midwesterners.)
I found myself savoring this level of predictability, and realized it was because it almost never happens in my daily travel life. In fact, most mornings I wake up feeling like I know next to nothing about the conditions I’ll face or how the day will unfold. Both my bands are very different in schedule, tour routines, and travel methodology, so week-to-week there is rarely any consistency, either. This level of uncertainty is wearing, and has created a need for me to be that much more diligent about the things I can control. Honestly, rather than this crazy travel year making me more relaxed, I feel like it’s given me a certain amount more to “worry” about, because being overly-prepared is often the only way I’ll stay healthy, reasonably comfortable, and get things done in the face of so many unknowns. (This may sound like complaining, but here’s my past post acknowledging my extreme privilege: Keeping Perspective)
In an average day, here are a few examples of the many uncertainties and how I counteract them. Travelers will commiserate:
This daily game of “wait and see” sometimes causes me to lose my ability to be excited by newness and seize opportunities, which is usually the beauty of travel. I catch myself saying things like “I thought the plan was…” or “I was expecting to…”
I surround myself by consistencies (more here) and do my best to be adaptable, but it’s a lot to take on and perfectionism doesn’t help. I do love this level excitement in life and would be bored without it, but I’m learning that it’s a delicate dance between planning, preparedness, and an ability to throw both out the window. (More here: Plan to Un-Plan)
Now I keep several mantras on the tip of my tongue at all times to keep calm and positive in times of extreme uncertainty. They may be helpful while traveling.
I say to myself:
“You chose this life” or “You chose to be on this trip”
“You wouldn’t be here if you weren’t equipped for this.”
“Times like these keep life exciting.”
“You’ll look back and wish you’d savored this time.”
“Nothing is wasted time. There is always something to be gained”
“This is a time like no other.”
“These are amazing ‘problems’ to have”
And, when necessary:
“Most everything is a credit card swipe or overnight shipment away.”
Do any of these resonate with you?
Deep breaths, drriifters 💙🌏💨
Diana
Goodbyes happen every day and to varying degrees throughout our year. They span from finishing…
July 20, 2018Once the worrying brain has found something to attach itself to, it can spend hours…
July 20, 2018
Dave Osbern | 21st Jul 18
I used to travel to SE Asia 6-7 times a year, maybe a couple of weeks at a time hitting 4-5 countries every time – sometimes found that a bit stressful. Can’t imagine being on the go all the time like what you’re doing. However, I do look back on that time now and realize how lucky I was to get to have those experiences. You’re a rock star – enjoy it!
Diana Ladio | 3rd Aug 18
Thanks for the reminder Dave! I’m sure I’ll be saying something similar years from now!
Claire | 23rd Jul 18
Not just La Croix, embrace the Bubly!! 🙂
Diana Ladio | 3rd Aug 18
I’m on board!!