Cover Photo by: @harrystamatov
I recently watched a video by Adam Russell. After watching it, I shared it with some friends and enjoyed it again. In the video, he emphasizes that life is happening and that ‘time passes anyway,’ regardless of our awareness—a gentle reminder for those who need it. We often believe the future is the ideal time to pursue our desires. However, new commitments emerge, we age, our savings diminish, and the mindset of ‘later’ persists. People find countless reasons to postpone decisions, and everyone is busy. Timing can always seem right or wrong based on our perspective. “Regardless of whether we’re here or not, time will pass anyway.”
The Privilege and Paradox of Choice
One of the more sobering realities of adulthood is recognizing that our choices shape our lives. The paradox of choice illustrates that having too many options often leads to dissatisfaction, even when we’re fortunate enough to have choices. Gratitude helps us appreciate this cycle and reminds us to live simply. Traveling teaches us that less can indeed mean more—more joy, contentment, and freedom. Yet, too often, we look outside ourselves for answers, as if we lack self-knowledge. We overcomplicate our decisions, clinging to the idea of finding the ‘best’ option, which often doesn’t exist. For instance, choosing a Yoga Trade opportunity—none is inherently better than another; each offers a unique experience. Our choices guide our paths and navigate our journeys.
Become Your Own Comfort Zone
“What if we’re so afraid of losing time that we see routine as our comfort zone to avoid anything going wrong?” Starting anew can be daunting, and despite our efforts to control our surroundings, we occasionally face unexpected challenges. “We mistakenly believe that by constantly worrying about all the unexpected misfortunes that could happen, we can evade them.” (Brianna Wiest, The Mountain Is You). Change tends to bring doubt; whether we seek it or it comes to us, both require courage and resilience to navigate and learn. We develop routines to foster a sense of certainty and security. As yoga instructors, we structure our classes to help students anticipate what comes next—transitioning from seated poses to standing, then sun salutations and balancing poses, which signals that returning to seated or lying poses indicates class is nearing its conclusion. We do this to minimize fear of the unknown, allowing students to build confidence and feel comfortable. While everyone’s routine looks different, it serves the same purpose of meeting our need for structure. Becoming more introspective rather than searching for external validation assures us that we are our own comfort zone. No matter where we are, we will always carry ourselves with us.
Brianna Wiest aptly summarizes this in her book The Mountain Is You:
“You cannot stay where you are if you want to alter your perspective and life. Embracing a new life will require letting go of your old one. It will cost you your comfort zone and your sense of direction. It will cost you relationships and friends. It will cost you your need to be liked and understood. But it doesn’t matter.”
Surf coaching, lessons, and boards are provided by @cafe.comsurf
Look First, Choose Wisely, and Care for the Universe
I just returned home from an impromptu surf trip that a friend and I planned in passing conversation. Within a week, we set our departure date, booked flights, and took off. Instead of listing reasons why it was impractical, I’d rather highlight why it made sense: it was a chance to pause, reconnect with nature, explore a new place, and fully embrace this unique life we have. Everything else would still be there when we got back, and it was. My life didn’t stop; I felt more productive, lighter, and gained fresh clarity.
During our surfing, a friend always reminds me: “Take care of the universe.” Offer only what you wish to receive; the best waves—and experiences in life—come from patience and careful selection. If things don’t work out, keep paddling and try again.
We are shaped by our unique circumstances. Assess yours and start with small, daily choices that align with your larger goals. If your goal is to travel internationally, dedicate just five minutes a day to research and planning, allowing it to become a priority, not a burden. Remember, preparation and safety are vital, even for spontaneous adventures.
“Chase that dream, say hi to that stranger, book that trip because if you don’t, someone else will, and time will pass anyway.”
Sources:
*All quotes (unless otherwise stated) are sourced from Adam Russell’s video Time Will Pass Anyway.
Book: Brianna Wiest’s The Mountain Is You.
