Cherish the Journey as much as the Destination

Cherish the Journey as much as the Destination

Today’s fast-paced world has an obsession, nay an addiction, to the “destination”.  It’s one of the main reasons that while we may have “more” (e.g., wealth, possessions, etc.) as a society, we don’t seem to be any happier.  What we need to realize is that the journey is just as valuable (perhaps more so) as the destination.  Who ever coined the phrase: “Stop and smell the roses.” was on to something.  It’s a concept I try to remind myself of everyday.

Whenever I find myself bored, directionless, and consumed by an overall lack of drive it’s often because I have lost sight of my initial goal, the very thing that set me on a path in the first place.  It’s a horrible place to be and a depressing state of mind.  Once you lose the passion, you may as well quit because even if you do reach your intended destination, there will only be a lack of satisfaction and a feeling of emptiness.  That invigorating and pleasurable sense of accomplishment that typically accompanies an outcome will almost certainly be absent. 

Remembering to “enjoy the ride” isn’t always easy, and embracing / applying the concept is even harder.  But I find comfort in knowing that it’s well worth the effort.  So remember to cherish the journey as much as the destination.  It’s a necessary ingredient in living a life of fulfillment.