We got a great deal on a rental cargo van and are now two weeks into driving around the spectacular landscapes of California.
I quit my job right before the trip, so for the first time in almost four years, I am on a significant break. My reasons for leaving were to try to take care of my health. I was facing an impending burnout and breakdown, and in my current financial situation, it made more sense to take some time to recover. And, go on an adventure!
I've been reading the perfect book while taking some personal time off work, Laziness Does Not Exist by Dr. Devon Price. In their book, they talk about savoring experiences. This can be staying present in the current moment with all your senses, remembering good memories fondly, or looking forward to future plans with anticipation.
Traveling or otherwise being uncertain where I'm going to sleep brings an immediacy to my experience. Camping makes it a good time and even an interesting challenge to locate and explore the next dispersed camping area. I feel a sense of accomplishment and reward at the end of a long day hiking in a safe and beautiful spot.
I've always thought of burnout as working way too hard on the wrong things. Traveling outdoors is a great way for me to feel I am working on something worthwhile. I am creating those memories that I can look back on fondly.
