What's this have to do with motorcycles? No matter what reason you think you bought that motorcycle for - I have a theory that the real reason was because your mind was subconsciously trying to rekindle that sense of adventure.
Motorcycles are a way to explore. When you bought that motorcycle, you were looking to fuel that flame of adventure in your soul. It doesn't matter if you're in your 20's or 50's, an experienced rider or a brand new rider.
But, rekindling that sense of adventure just doesn't happen with the purchase of a motorcycle, much less a purchase of anything. So, here are five tips on how to become a better adventurer:
Plan less. I'm not knocking planning, it's usually necessary. But don't try to figure out everything beforehand. Pick one or two destinations, versus a whole weekend of hour by hour activities. Pick one or two cool roads and routes that you want to try, instead of every mile of the trip. Make sure you have more unplanned time than planned time. The worst that's going to happen? You might get a little bored. The best? Well, the possibilities are endless and damn exciting.
Take little steps. An adventure doesn't have to be a weeklong trip, a weekend trip, or even a day trip. Adventure and time aren't related. Ride your bike to work one day. Pick up groceries with your motorcycle (this has the extra benefit of saving money!). The point is you don't need a big span of time. Simply try to change your framework of thinking from "I'm going to have an adventure or explore something new," to "how I can try something different today versus what I always do."
Get Lost. People seem to have an intense fear of getting lost. I'm not sure why. What's the fear based on? That they'll run out of gas? Be embarrassed about having to ask how to get home? That the road will run out? Who knows. But, here's a fact: sometimes the best way to find something is to get lost. So, the next time you find yourself wondering what's down that little road you just passed, turn around and find out.
Share it with other people. To me, an important part of my personal life is to make memories. And, the best way to make memories is with others. Not only do you end up having someone that you can laugh about the experience with, but you inspire a sense of adventure in others.
Get uncomfortable. I thought about making this one "Don't Worry So Much", but the key is to make yourself uncomfortable, and worrying is part of being uncomfortable. So, actually, I want you to worry, because that's a sign you're getting out of your comfort zone. I don't know why, but our society has become a society of maximizing comfort and minimizing worry. I'm not so sure that's a good thing. If you haven't' bought that motorcycle because you're worried you might get hurt, do it anyway. If you don't like it, you can always sell it.
That's it. Try just one of these and I guarantee you'll feel a little stir in your soul. These tips apply just as equally to riding motorcycles as they do to living life in general.
I'll leave you with my all-time favorite poem, modified for the adventure seeking, motorcycle riding, explorer in us all:
Life should NOT be a journey to the grave
with the intention of arriving safely
in an attractive and well preserved motorcycle,
But rather to skid in sideways,
brake squeezed in one hand,
throttle twisted in the other,
gas tank on empty,
tires worn out and screaming
"WOO HOO what a ride!"
Enjoy the ride. P.S. Got your own tips on living a more adventurous life? Share them below!
A Lighthouse Tour in Southern Maine
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